When we think about oral health, our attention often leans toward the teeth. We brush, floss, and sometimes whiten them to keep them shining. We tend to overlook that one part of our mouth, the gums. Our gums may not always get the attention they deserve, but they play an important role in our overall health. When gum infections occur, they can lead to more serious complications than just an uncomfortable feeling. Understanding gum infections can help you avoid problems down the line and keep your smile as healthy as it is bright.

What is a Gum Infection?

Gum infection is also called gingivitis or periodontitis in more serious conditions. It is a swelling up of the gums which is caused by bacteria which are normally present in the mouth.

Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum infection. It is caused by plaque which is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. The plaque should be removed by daily brushing and flossing. When the plaque is not removed it hardens into tartar which irritates your gums. The gums become red and swollen and bleed when you brush your teeth.

Now, periodontitis is an advanced stage of gum infection. This happens when the infection spreads into the deeper structure that supports your teeth, including the bones.

This may cause the following issues:

• Gums may start to recede
• Teeth may loosen
• In serious cases, teeth may fall out

If left untreated, periodontitis can lead to serious health problems.

Gum’s Relationship to Your General Health

"I've never really had a problem with my gums," you may be thinking. Why should I be concerned? According to current research, gum infections are not limited to the mouth. Your bloodstream may be contaminated by the bacteria in diseased gums, which could result in more severe conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and even stroke.

For example, the inflammation brought on by bacteria entering the bloodstream increases the risk of heart disease in those who have gum disease. Similarly, gum infections can negatively impact diabetics' ability to manage their blood sugar levels by raising blood sugar levels, which can worsen their condition.

Symptoms of Gum Infection

The symptoms of a gum infection can be subtle at first. In the start, your gums might just feel a little tender or bleed when you brush your teeth. But if left untreated, the symptoms can worsen. Here are some of the most common signs of a gum infection:

• Swollen, red gums: Healthy gums are firm and pale pink. Infected gums look red, swollen, and feel tender to the touch most of the time.
• Bleeding gums: The bleeding gums when you are brushing or flossing is a sign of gum disease.
• Bad breath: A constant bad taste in your mouth or bad breath can be a result of the bacteria causing the infection.
• Pain while chewing: As the infection spreads, your gums may become more sensitive, making chewing uncomfortable or even painful.
• Loose teeth: In more serious cases of periodontitis, the bone and connective tissue supporting your teeth can get worse, causing your teeth to become loose or shift.

Causes of Gum Infections

There are many things that can give rise to gum infections such as poor oral health, smoking, poor diet, and certain health conditions. Let us discuss those in detail.

• Poor Oral Health: The most common cause of gum infections is poor oral health. When plaque is allowed to build up on your teeth and gums, it can lead to infection at some point. So regular dental cleaning is very important in such situations.
• Smoking: Smoking is a very troublesome habit. Smoking or using products with tobacco in them can increase your risk of getting gum disease in a serious manner. Smoking weakens your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections, including those in the gums.
• Diet: Your diet plays an important role in gum infection and your overall health. A diet lacking vital nutrients like vitamin C makes your gums more prone to infection. You also need to increase your water intake as it washes off the bacteria and keeps you hydrated.
• Health Conditions: Some health conditions like diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and certain autoimmune diseases can increase your chances of getting gum infections. Medicines that decrease saliva flow, such as antihistamines or some blood pressure drugs, can also give rise to gum problems.
• Genetics: People with different genetics will react differently to the same set of bacteria. There are certain sets of genetics that will be more prone to gum disease, meaning they’re more likely to develop infections even if they maintain good oral health.

Prevention and Treatment of Gum Infections

The good news is that we can prevent and treat gum infections. Now let’s see how you can protect your gums from the infection to keep your smile healthy:

• Brush and Floss Regularly: You should always brush and floss your teeth. Brush two times a day and floss after every meal. This is the best way to remove plaque and bacteria from your gums and teeth. You should use a soft toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste to keep your teeth and gums protected.
• Regular Dentist Visits: Go to see your dentist at monthly intervals. Regular dental checkups are important to catch any potential gum infections before they become a serious problem. Your dentist can clean your teeth and remove tartar that’s hard to get rid of at home by dental scaling treatment.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking destroys your immune system and increases the risk of gum infections. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your gums and overall health.
• Eat a Balanced Diet: Eat foods that are good for your gut and maintain a balanced diet. A balanced diet consists of food rich in vitamins and minerals. Fruits with Vitamin C can help you keep your gums healthy. Foods like leafy greens, citrus fruits, and lean proteins can boost your immune system and promote healing.
• Manage Other Health Conditions: You should manage other health conditions which can affect your gums. Like, if you have diabetes, controlling your blood sugar levels can help you prevent gum infections from developing and/or getting worse.
• Use Antibacterial Mouthwash: Rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce plaque and bacteria in your mouth in the areas that are hard to reach with brushing and flossing.

The most important thing we learned from this blog is that gum infection can be prevented and treated. You should always consult your dentist if you see the signs of gum infection. You can take control of your gum health and avoid serious problems by understanding the symptoms and causes of gum infection. Remember, healthy gums are the foundation for a healthy smile, and your smile is worth taking care of! You should not overlook your gum health and give them the attention they deserve to enjoy a lifetime of good health.