Gum pockets: Recognise, treat and prevent!
Today we want to talk to you about an important topic. A topic that affects many of us: gum pockets. These small pockets can be a serious health problem if they are not treated. They can cause massive damage to our teeth, up to and including loss. In this article we will look at what gum pockets are, what causes them to form, how to treat them and how to avoid them.
What are gingival pockets?
Gum pockets are small pockets that form between the tooth and the gum. They form when plaque and harmful bacteria accumulate below the gum line and detach the gum from the tooth. This process leads to the formation of deeper and deeper pockets where plaque and bacteria can continue to accumulate.
What are the causes of gingival pockets?
There are many causes that lead to gum pockets. The most common cause that leads to a tooth pocket is poor oral hygiene. When we don't brush our teeth thoroughly enough or often enough, plaque and harmful bacteria build up. Their oversized accumulation leads to gingivitis and pocket formation. Other factors that can lead to gum pockets include:
- Smoking,
- poor diet,
- hormonal changes,
- stress and genetic predisposition.
How can gum pockets be treated?
It is important to identify and treat periodontal pockets early to avoid short- and long-term damage to your teeth. Your dentist will recommend a periodontal treatment to clean and disinfect existing gum pockets. As well as cleaning gum pockets, this treatment may include scaling and root planing, which removes tartar and plaque from the surface of your teeth and under your gums. In very severe cases, antibiotic treatment may also be necessary.
How can gum pockets be avoided?
The best way to prevent gum pockets is good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day, ideally using our emmi-dent ultrasonic toothbrush. Floss to remove plaque and harmful bacteria from between your teeth. Also avoid elementary tooth-damaging factors such as smoking and make sure you eat a healthy diet. Visit your dentist regularly to have your teeth cleaned and checked. However, you should refrain from the idea of treating gum pockets yourself.
Conclusion: Detect gum pockets at an early stage
It is important to detect and treat gum pockets early to prevent damage to your teeth. By maintaining good oral hygiene, regular dental visits and healthy habits, you can prevent gum pockets and keep your teeth healthy.
If you have already noticed signs of gingivitis or a pocket, you should not hesitate to visit your dentist and arrange treatment. The longer you wait to seek treatment, the more difficult it can be to resolve the problem and maintain the health of your teeth and gums.
Another important thing to remember is to use the right toothbrush and technique when brushing your teeth. Your dentist can show you how to brush your teeth properly and which toothbrush and floss are best for you.