Gum Problems: Causes and symptoms

Doctor and patience

This article will take you 7 minutes to read.

Blood in the sink after brushing your teeth is part of everyday life for many. It shouldn't, however, because bleeding gums are an indication of what is known as gingivitis, i.e. inflammation of the gums. This can usually be easily treated at home and at the dentist within a short period of time and is not a cause for panic. However, you should not ignore signs of gum disease.

Causes of gingivitis

The main cause of the disease is bacterial plaque due to inadequate oral hygiene. The so-called plaque forms between the gum and the tooth and hardens if it is not removed. After more than 72 hours on the teeth, the plaque turns into tartar, in which harmful bacteria can settle and cause inflammation of the gums unhindered. The gums begin to redden and swell. It becomes mobile and is no longer firmly attached to the teeth, and bleeding is also more frequent. The inflammation can then spread to the periodontium, which is called periodontitis. This often leads to symptoms such as receding gums and bad breath. Those affected then risk that the plaque on the tooth surface spreads deep under the gums. The jawbone is broken down, which can lead to tooth loss in advanced stages.

How do you recognize gingivitis?

The main danger of gingivitis is that it is recognized and treated too late. Because gingivitis is hardly recognizable as such for non-specialists, since it does not bring any particularly stressful symptoms. Affected gums are red and slightly swollen. In addition, touching or brushing teeth often causes bleeding gums. Unlike periodontitis, gingivitis only affects the gums and not the periodontium.

How is gingivitis treated?

The be-all and end-all is particularly thorough oral hygiene. Then gingivitis usually disappears within a few days without further complications. The usual brushing of teeth twice a day is the basis. However, with existing gingivitis, attention is more focused on the areas where plaque builds up. Therefore, dental floss or interdental brushes should definitely be included in the daily routine. They specifically remove harmful bacteria from places that cannot be reached with a toothbrush. Antibacterial mouthwash rounds off the routine at home.

  • Gargling with herbal teas can support oral hygiene in a natural way. Sage tightens gums and chamomile helps curb inflammation. You can also dab tea tree oil on inflamed gums. The essential oil also has an antiseptic effect and thus helps against inflammation.
  • Diet plays a role in treatment that should not be underestimated. Certain anti-inflammatory foods counteract gingivitis. Other food components apparently promote inflammatory processes in the body and the growth of "bad" bacteria.
  • Pro-inflammatory foods include carbohydrates, saturated fat, trans fat and cholesterol. So avoid sugar in any form, starches, animal foods like fatty meats, cheese and eggs, saturated fat and anything fried.
  • Mega-3 fatty acids, fiber, vitamins, minerals and secondary plant substances, on the other hand, are said to have an anti-inflammatory effect. Therefore, sea fish such as salmon, herring or sardines are a must on your menu. Soy, nuts and spinach provide important minerals and vegetables are a good source of secondary plant substances.
  • If your gums are permanently inflamed despite good oral hygiene and a balanced diet, you should definitely see your dentist. This can clarify possible medical causes such as other diseases, medication or hormonal changes.