A gum infection is a serious condition that requires prompt treatment. Left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis – the severe form of gum disease that leads to tooth loss. The bacteria that cause gum infection live within the sticky biofilm that sticks to our teeth. Antibiotics eliminate these harmful bacteria and reduce inflammation.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics are one of the most critical weapons in our arsenal against gum disease. These medications help control infection, reduce inflammation, and promote healing of gum tissue and bone. These powerful drugs may be prescribed as oral tablets, capsules, or even as topical gels and rinses for localized infections. They can be effective when used alone or in conjunction with traditional non-surgical treatments like scaling and root planing.

Several types of antibiotics can be used to treat gum infections, depending on the specific bacteria involved. Common antibiotics include penicillins (like amoxicillin), macrolides (such as azithromycin or erythromycin), tetracyclines (including doxycycline and metronidazole) and clindamycin.

The selection of the appropriate antibiotic depends on patient-specific factors and must be guided by principles of antibiotic stewardship to prevent the development of resistance. In addition to antibiotic therapy, home remedies like saltwater rinses can also help alleviate symptoms and support healing.

Deep Cleaning

Brushing and flossing, using mouthwash, eating a balanced diet, avoiding tobacco and tobacco products, and getting regular dental cleanings can control bacteria levels and prevent gum infections. Nonetheless, those with underlying risk factors may need more aggressive treatment to eliminate bacteria buildup and heal inflamed gums.

Symptoms of gum infection include bright red or dark gums, bleeding while brushing, bad breath that doesn’t go away, loose teeth, pus in the gum region, or a change in how your teeth fit together when you bite. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact a dentist right away for treatment.

Natural home remedies can also help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in the gums. Saltwater rinses, oil pulling (swishing a tablespoon of coconut or sesame oil in the mouth for 10-15 minutes, then spitting), and aloe vera gel can soothe inflamed gums and promote healing. Some of these treatments can be used in conjunction with antibiotics to provide maximum results.

Scaling & Root Planing

If gum disease is caught in its early stages (gingivitis), it may be reversible with good oral hygiene, including daily brushing and flossing, and regular professional dental cleanings. However, if bacteria get the upper hand and progress to the more advanced form of gum disease known as periodontitis, then a more aggressive approach is needed.

Dental scaling and root planing (sometimes referred to as a deep cleaning) is a nonsurgical procedure that involves removing the bacteria, plaque and tartar deposits on the surface of your teeth both above and below your gum line, as well as smoothing out your tooth roots.

Typically, your hygienist will use a manual or ultrasonic scaling tool to remove the deposits supragingivally, and then a root planer to smooth out rough areas on your tooth and root surfaces. These steps can reduce the depth of pockets that develop between your teeth and gums, lowering your risk for more severe bone and tooth loss.

Surgery

The bacteria that cause gum infections produce a sticky coating called plaque, which traps food and causes further damage. Over time, inflammation from plaque can lead to periodontitis – the advanced stage of gum disease that causes deep pockets to form between the teeth and gums. The pockets fill with plaque, tartar and bacteria, causing tooth and bone loss.

A few simple home treatments can help reduce the bacterial load and improve gum health. Rinsing with salt water, using diluted tea tree oil and oil pulling, and brushing twice a day can all reduce infection. In severe cases of infection, Edison dentists may prescribe antibiotics like doxycycline or metronidazole, which eliminate bacteria.

Poor oral hygiene is a major risk factor for gum disease, but other factors like smoking, hormonal changes in women during pregnancy and menopause, diabetes, medications that reduce saliva flow and genetic predisposition can also increase your risk of developing gum infections. Early detection and treatment can prevent more serious complications like swollen, bleeding gums and tooth loss.