As much importance as we pay to our teeth, our gums need as much care. It plays a vital role in oral health by aiding in the production of saliva, which helps cleanse the mouth, neutralise acids, and prevent dryness. Additionally, gums contribute to effective chewing, promoting digestion and overall oral hygiene. Poor oral hygiene can hamper healthy functioning of the gums.
Dr Ekta Khatri, Co-founder-The Func Dent, The Functional Dentistry Center, Prosthodontist and implantologist, Mumbai, says, gums are one of the most easily affected components of the oral cavity and gum diseases are among the most common dental issues. In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Khatri throws light on the many causes of gum disease.
Understanding Gum Disease And What It Feels Like
“When the gum gets infected they turn red and swollen and often bleed on slight stimulation like while brushing or flossing. This is called gingivitis,” says Dr Khatri, adding, “Left untreated, it leads to periodontitis, which is when bacteria is carried towards the bone and the gums start to recede with bone loss. Advanced periodontitis occurs when there is severe gum inflammation with bone loss, resulting in loosened and sore gums.”
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According to a study published in the International Journal of Health Sciences, periodontal diseases affect about 20-50% of the global population and are common in both developed and developing countries. Common risk factors include smoking, poor oral hygiene, hormonal changes in women, diabetes mellitus, medications, stress, age and more, as per the study.
Poor Oral Hygiene Isn’t The Only Thing That Causes Gum Problems
Dr Khatri says, “Though primarily caused by the accumulation of plaque and tartar due to poor oral hygiene, there are other factors beyond improper oral care that contribute to gum diseases.” These include:
Smoking and tobacco usage
Smoking and the use of tobacco is said to alter the oral microflora that reduces inflammatory response. According to the doctor, the release of nicotine in the bloodstream can cause the healing process to slow down. The above-quoted study also points out that smokers are three times more likely to have a severe form of periodontal disease than non-smokers.
Poor nutrition
When it comes to poor nutrition, it means an unbalanced diet that includes excessive sugary foods, starchy foods, highly acidic foods, all of which have an impact on not just the teeth but also the gums. A deficiency of nutrients and vitamins, especially vitamin C has been associated with gum diseases, says Dr Khatri.
In fact, a review published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology found that vitamin C depletion can cause gingival bleeding regardless of oral hygiene. "Dental caries and periodontal diseases are a sensitive alarm bell for an unhealthy diet, which predicts the future onset of the diseases of civilizations," the research paper read.
Medications
“Certain drugs, such as anticonvulsants used for epileptic seizures, some calcium channel blockers used for blood pressure, and angina, alter the regular oral environment,” says Dr Khatri, adding, “Immunosuppressants prescribed post organ transplant and in autoimmune diseases, can cause gingival enlargement while some reduce salivary production, leading to gum disease.”
Genetics
Some individuals are more susceptible to gum infection than others due to certain genetic factors that are involved in the body's inflammatory response are altered hereditarily. In a study involving 110 pairs of adult twins, it was established that 38–82% of the population variance for probing depth (PD) (Periodontal measurements), attachment loss (AL) and dental plaque/gingivitis may be attributed to genetic factors.
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How To Maintain Strong Gums
According to Dr Khatri, the medical status of the patient plays an important role in the health of the gums. “A direct relation has been established via many studies between gingival health and hormonal changes, hence women undergoing a pregnancy or menopause are more likely to get affected by periodontal disease,” she says, adding, “Medical conditions such as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), diabetes, autoimmune diseases alter the body's immune response making one more prone to gum diseases.”
Here’s what you can do to maintain strong and healthy gums:
- Brushing and flossing twice a day
- Visiting your dentist every six months, especially if you have any of the above-mentioned habits or medical conditions
- Maintaining a balanced diet that is nutrient rich, includes good probiotics
- Staying hydrated
- Managing medical conditions; like with diabetes it's important to keep it under control
Conclusion
Gum disease is a serious oral health condition that can lead to inflammation, infection, and potential tooth loss if left untreated. Regular dental hygiene practices are essential in preventing and managing gum disease. Early detection and intervention are key to maintaining healthy gums and overall oral well-being.
