Understanding Bacterial Gum Infection

The oral cavity is a natural haven for microorganisms. It is the home to a wide variety of microbial species, most of which are bacterial. Different strains of Streptococcus such S.  epidermidis, S. mitis, S. salivarius and even potential disease-causing strains such as S. mutans, S. pneumonia had established colonies inside the mouth. Other bacterial species such as  Lactobacillus, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Spirochetes have significant populations inside the mouth as well.  Most of these microbial biomasses are harmless and do not pose an immediate threat. However, when one does not practice good dental hygiene, as well as with other factors that might affect the immune system or alter this healthy diversity of indigenous microbiota, bacterial gum infection may likely to occur.

As mentioned, infection of the gum is a common ailment that usually happens, on the most part, from poor dental habits. When one does not brush his teeth for a significant period of time, these bacterias will form a sticky, barely visible coating that adheres to the teeth surface, the gum and on the tiny spaces in between each tooth and the gum line. These bacterial biofilm is called a plaque. It takes about 72 hours or 3 days for plaque formation to complete. Plaques can hardened up and calcify, transforming them into a calculus or better known as a tartar.

Removing plaque is very important as it can trigger an overwhelming host response. This antagonistic immune reaction to the plaque buildup leads to gum inflammation, or gingivitis.

Clinical manifestations of bacterial gum infection or plaque-induced gingivitis include, a bright red, swollen gum which is sensitive to tactile stimulation causing pain and discomfort. The inflamed gum is prone to bleeding. A foul breath or halitosis is present due to fecal matter excreted by the bacterias within the plaque, as well as with the presence of pus. Ulceration of gingival tissues and subsequent pus or abscess formation may develop as the infection progresses. In more advanced stages, partial or complete edentulism, or loss of the teethmay happen as the gum can become feeble.

Complications

Unfortunately, infection can also spread to the supporting structures, collectively called as periodontal tissues, which help put in place the teeth to the maxilla and mandibular bones. This condition is called periodontitis. Signs and symptoms are almost alike with gingivitis. There is a gradual loss of the teeth which is caused by bacterial destruction of the alveolar bones, as plaque, which is mostly composed of Porphyromonas gingivalis bacteria, eats away the bone structure for nourishment. Weakening of the other periodontal tissues also contribute to teeth loss as well. Furthermore, teeth loss provides a space, which serves as a gateway for bacteria to spread into the body via the circulatory system.

When periodontitis occurs it must be treated right away, as different strains of bacteria contained in the plaque can cause collateral damage to other tissues in the body. In fact, studies had shown that periodontitis had been linked to cardiovascular anomalies such as Cerebrovascular accident (CVA) or stroke, Myocardial Infarction (MI) or heart attack, Atherosclerosis, or arterial fat and blood clot accumulation. Some of the bacterial strains found on the plaque can form blood clots, which can be dislodged in the cerebral and coronary arteries.

An Ounce Of Prevention Is Better Than A Pound Of Cure

Bacterial gum infection and its complications are quite simple to avoid. All you need to do is to deprive bacteria, a forward operating base for plaque formation.

Regular tooth brushing every after meal and removing trapped food particles between the teeth by flossing is the primary basic step. Antiseptic mouthwash containing Povidone iodine, Chlorhexidine, alcohol, Triclosan and other antiseptic substances are added defenses that may be utilized.

If smoking is part of everyday life, it must be stopped. Smoking suppresses saliva production. The human saliva contains antimicrobial enzymes such as lysozyme, lactoperoxidase, IgA and lactoferrin that inhibit bacterial growth.

Improper installation of dental fixtures and dentures are also risk factors. To correct this improper emplacement, have it done by your dentist.

It is also recommended to have a general cleaning of your teeth at dental clinic every six months, in order to remove plaque and tartar deposits.

Conventional Treatment

The emphasis of treatment is the removal of plaque and tartar from the teeth and the gum line. A visit to the dentist is required as regular tooth brushing and flossing are ineffective.

The dentist will perform a  non-surgical periodontal therapy or dental prophylaxis which may include scaling and tooth planning. For more serious conditions involving damage to the gums and the surrounding periodontal tissues, gum surgery is performed with the use of novocaine, an oral anesthesia.

Analgesics, anti-inflammatory and antibiotics may be prescribed as well.

Simple Home remedies

Gum infection does not usually require hospitalization. The good thing is, ordinary consumer products  provide excellent complementary treatment that can be used together with conventional treatment.

Another good alternative for commercial mouthwash is diluting half a tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide power in a glass of water. Swish for about a minute and then rinse thereafter.

Gargling with a glass of lukewarm water mixed with two teaspoons of table salt is an excellent method in alleviating gum pain.

Applying Clove oil diluted with olive oil to the infected gum provides relief from pain, reduces inflammation and fights of microbes as well.

Garlic is a multi-purpose antiseptic agent. It has antifungal and antibacterial attributes. Take garlic supplements or garnish your meal with fresh or fried garlic.

The nature of bacterial gum infection is quite easy to pick up and learn. Bear in mind that what you do to your teeth will determine the health of your gum. However, when infection does occur, it is always a prudent thing to do to see and visit your dentist or any local dental clinic for further care, management and treatment.