We often find inflammation and swelling on the gums, but what if there is a hole in it? Gums support the teeth, and together they make up ninety percent of the oral cavity. Both need to be in good shape for good oral health. Wondering how you can have a hole in the gums? We have got you covered. This blog has your question answered and explains a little more about it, why it appears and what to do about it.
What Does Hole In The Gums Mean?
A hole in the gum is basically an area that appears to be hollow, pocketed as opposed to the surrounding area. There are various reasons for this condition to appear, the most common is gum disease.
Let’s look at the reasons for the presence of small or big holes in the gums.
What is The Reason for These Holes to Appear?
The main reason for this condition is gum disease. Bacteria live inside the mouth. Their abundance causes issues like tartar or plaque buildup, tooth sensitivity, etc.
The bacteria inside the mouth start to eat away gum tissues, making spaces and voids in it. It starts to recede, forming a pocket. The hole initially is small but conveniently grows larger if not treated.
Gingivitis and periodontitis are two main kinds of gum diseases in which this condition shows up as a symptom. Gingivitis acts as a precursor to periodontitis. In other words, gingivitis progresses into periodontal disease. The latter is graver and requires medical attention.
Types of Periodontitis
A gum disease which hits soft tissues and damages the bone that supports teeth if not treated on time. There are three subdivisions of the said condition.
Chronic Periodontitis
With the condition of the gum worsening with time, a hole forms in the gums but in some time it will lead to tooth loss.
Aggressive Periodontitis
This type shoots up within a short span of time and detaches the gums from tooth lining, making it feel like a hole.
Necrotizing Periodontitis
This condition is more related to systemic diseases like HIV. The cells in the tissue of the gums start to die off, forming a void.
Open Tooth Socket
Apart from disease, dry sockets form if the hole does not heal up properly after extracting a tooth.
Treatment options for hole in the gums
Treatment selection is made according to the cause of the hole formation.
Deep Cleaning
It is a two-step process, scaling and root planing. Firstly, the dentist performs scaling, which scrapes off the tartar and plaque, which is pushing the gum from its position, forming pockets. Next, root-planing covers the deeper layer and scales off plaque from there.
Pocket Eliminating Procedure
It is also referred to as flap surgery. The tissues are sliced open, bacteria, plaque, or tartar is removed and attached back to its place in a better fashion to remove any holes around the gum.
Gum Grafting
A procedure that works best for receding gums. A part of healthy tissue is taken from a different place and fits where the gum line has receded.
Antibiotics
In severe cases, antibiotics are used to kill off the bacteria.
Overview
Various treatment options might confuse you. It is best to get a professional’s opinion on it before getting on with an eradication plan. At Porter Smiles Dental, we offer consultation and surgical services at excellent prices. Call now at 281 519 7200 in case of any query; we’re at your service.