There are several causes of gum infection. Improper dental care is by far the most common. Other causes include oral trauma, tobacco use, hormonal fluctuations, certain medications, genetics, and some diseases.
People's mouths are full of bacteria in the form of plaque, an invisible sticky film that occurs naturally on the teeth and gums. When plaque is not removed regularly by brushing and flossing, the bacteria can irritate and damage the gums. If left undisturbed, plaque will turn into tartar, a hard buildup on the teeth that requires a dental procedure to remove. Tartar attacks the soft tissues of the mouth, causing gingivitis or more serious periodontal disease. An infection that progresses this far can destroy the supporting bone that holds the teeth in the gums.
Oral trauma can be caused by a dental procedure, rough brushing, or forceful tooth picking. This trauma can lead to inflammation or infection of the gums. Also, a tooth cavity left untreated for too long can cause a very painful gum infection called an abscess.
Smoking is another major cause of gum infection and the development of gum disease. Regular tobacco use causes bone loss, reduces saliva levels, impedes blood flow, and damages the immune system. Also, heat and smoke can irritate delicate oral tissue. Treatments for gum infection and gum disease are also less effective in tobacco users.
During pregnancy, women are more prone to gum infections due to hormonal fluctuations that cause the gums to react differently to bacteria. The same effect is true of puberty and menopause. Similarly, certain medications, such as oral contraceptives, steroids, cancer treatment medications, antidepressants, heart medications, and anti-epilepsy medications, often cause gum infections because they disrupt hormone levels natural.
A weak immune system will often lead to a gum infection. This could be caused by a nutritional deficiency from a poor diet or by a more serious illness. Gum infections develop when the body cannot effectively fight the infection.
Some people are simply more likely than others to develop gum infections, even with proper dental care. There is a genetic component to gum disease. Therefore, people who have a family history of gum infections should be especially vigilant about routine oral hygiene and regular trips to the dentist.
Symptoms of gum infections include swollen and bleeding gums, red gums, bad breath, pain, pus between the teeth and gums, and tooth changes, including loose teeth. Treatment depends on the severity of the infection. Home remedies may be enough for gum irritations, but gum infections require a trip to the dentist.
Treatments for gum infections may include cleaning, antibiotics, dental procedures such as pocket reduction or gum regeneration, or, in severe cases, surgery. It is important that one visit the dentist immediately if a gum infection is suspected. Preventive steps like regular flossing and brushing, as well as frequent professional cleanings, are very effective in fighting gum disease.