Gingival disease | |
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Specialty | Dentistry |
Gingival disease is a term used to group the diseases that affect the gingiva (gums). The most common gingival disease is gingivitis , the earliest stage of gingival-related diseases. Gingival disease encompasses all the conditions surrounding the gums; this includes plaque-induced gingivitis, non-dental biofilm plaque-induced gingivitis, and periodontal diseases. [1]
Gingival health that is not well cared for is usually connected with inflammation of the gums. This leads to gingivitis, which is linked to two categories: [2]
Dental plaque biofilm-induced gingivitis is often called "localized inflammation initiated by microbial biofilm accumulation on teeth,".[2]Non-dental-plaque-induced gingival diseases are the most uncommon bacterial infections of the gingiva. Here is each category classification based on the Classification of Periodontal Diseases and Conditions in 2017:
Gingival Classifications
As gingivitis progresses further and is not treated, it may progress into periodontitis. Periodontal disease is when the gums surrounding the teeth become swollen, causing the surrounding plaque to build up. Left untreated, it can cause the teeth to become loose due to weak gums. Periodontal disease can compromise factors such as: [4]
Dental plaque accumulates at the surfaces when proper cleaning and maintenance are not done. There is inflammation due to the bacteria released from the toxins. Calculus forms, and if not removed, causes this disease. [5] In most cases, the cause of gingival diseases such as gingivitis is due to poor oral hygiene. This is the most common cause of gingival diseases. Though other factors included are:
The condition must be treated by professional dental care when left untreated for too long. Though gingival diseases can be easily prevented with good daily oral maintenance. The ADA recommends five preventatives that are essential to supporting healthy oral health:
Speaking to a pharmacist helps remind or mention problems seen in oral care. ADA encourages those who seek help to reach out to local pharmacies as they can prompt patients to detect signs of gingival diseases, and provide oral care products/oral health