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Oral Leukoplakia (OL) – Treatment, Causes, Images, Tongue, Differential Diagnosis
Key Facts Oral leukoplakia refers to thickened, white patches that form on the mucous membranes of the mouth, which cannot be wiped away It’s among the most common oral lesions, affecting approximately 1% of the global population While often benign, some types of leukoplakia can be precursors to oral cancer Strongly associated with tobacco use, including smoking and chewing, but can also result from irritations like rough teeth or fillings Treatment depends on the lesion’s appearance, the presence of symptoms, and if there’s evidence of cancerous changes What is Oral Leukoplakia? Oral Leukoplakia, derived from the Greek words leuko (white) and plakia (patch), describes white patches that form on the…
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Periodontal Abscess – Treatment, Antibiotics, Drainage, Home Remedy, Radiograph
Key Facts A periodontal abscess is an acute bacterial infection localized within the supporting structures of a tooth It differs from a periapical abscess, which is located at the apex (tip) of a tooth’s root Common symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, and a bad taste in the mouth Treatment involves drainage of the abscess, antibiotic therapy (when required), and addressing the underlying cause Left untreated, a periodontal abscess can lead to more serious complications, including the spread of infection and potential tooth loss What is a Periodontal Abscess? A periodontal abscess, often simply referred to as a gum abscess, is a localized pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection…
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Cut on Gums – From Brushing, Not Healing Won’t Heal, by Below Tooth, Between Teeth, Infected,
Key Facts Gum Cuts are wounds or lacerations on the soft tissue of the gum These cuts can result from accidental bites, brushing too hard, flossing, dental procedures, or consuming hard or sharp-edged foods Almost everyone has experienced a gum cut at some point in their life The oral cavity has a robust healing capacity. Most minor gum cuts will heal on their own in a few days While most gum cuts are benign, they can be an entry point for infections. Therefore, maintaining oral hygiene is crucial Gum Cuts Locations: Where you can get cuts? The gums, being soft tissue, are vulnerable to injuries. Here are the common locations…
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Gum Swollen Around One Tooth – What Should I do?
This article is a part of our Q&A series in which we give detailed answers to our readers' questions. Have a question? Don't hesitate and send it to us to get a detailed answer! Gum swelling around a single tooth can be bothersome and sometimes alarming. Understanding the potential causes and knowing how to properly manage and treat this condition are essential for maintaining good oral health. This guide provides an in-depth look at the reasons behind gum swelling around one tooth and offers practical advice on dealing with this dental issue. What is Gum Swelling? Gum swelling, or gingival swelling, is an enlargement or inflammation of the gum tissue.…
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Gingivostomatitis – Treatment, Toddler, Diagnosis, Causes, Symptoms, Herpes
Key Facts Gingivostomatitis is an oral condition characterized by inflammation of the gums and mucous membranes of the mouth It can be caused by viral or bacterial infections, poor oral hygiene, or allergic reactions While it can affect people of all ages, gingivostomatitis is more common in children Symptoms include red, swollen gums, mouth ulcers, and difficulty eating or drinking The condition is usually treated with antiviral medications, pain relief medications, and maintaining good oral hygiene What is Gingivostomatitis? Gingivostomatitis is a term used to describe an inflammation of the gums and the lining of the mouth (mucous membranes). It can be painful and is often accompanied by ulcers and…
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Trench Mouth – Meaning, Pictures, WW1, Causes, Tongue, Treatment, Symptoms, Diagnosis
Key Facts Trench mouth, also known as Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis (ANUG), is a severe gum infection The condition is characterized by painful, bleeding gums and ulcers Trench mouth was common among soldiers during World War I, which is how it got its name (it is less common now due to better oral hygiene practices) The condition can affect people of all ages but is more common in young adults Trench mouth is not contagious Smoking, stress, poor nutrition, and poor oral hygiene are risk factors for developing trench mouth Early treatment is crucial in managing symptoms and preventing complications What is Trench Mouth? (Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis) Trench Mouth,…
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Bleeding Gums – Causes, Cancer, Treatment, Pregnancy, when Brushing or Flossing
Key Facts Bleeding gums are a common oral health issue, affecting a large proportion of the population This condition can range from mild bleeding when brushing to severe bleeding and discomfort Poor oral hygiene is a common cause, but several other factors may contribute It’s essential to address bleeding gums promptly to prevent complications such as gum disease Regular dental check-ups are crucial in managing and preventing bleeding gums What Are Bleeding Gums? Bleeding gums refer to a condition where the gums bleed easily, especially during brushing or flossing. This condition may be accompanied by other symptoms such as redness, swelling, and tenderness of the gums. While occasional mild bleeding…
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Deep Cleaning of Teeth – vs Regular Cleaning, Cost, Alternatives, Procedure
Key Facts Deep cleaning is technically known as scaling and root planing It is a procedure to treat gum disease by removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline It helps to prevent progression of periodontal diseases The treatment may require more than one visit and sometimes followed by a maintenance plan Proper oral hygiene practices are crucial after the procedure What is Deep Cleaning? Deep cleaning is a dental procedure aimed at treating gum diseases, particularly periodontitis. Unlike regular cleaning, which cleans the surface of the teeth and the areas slightly below the gumline, deep cleaning goes further below the gumline to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria. This procedure…
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Gingivoplasty – Procedure, Cost, Definition, Indications, or Gingivectomy
Gingivoplasty, a type of periodontal surgery, involves reshaping the gum tissue around the teeth. Primarily used to treat periodontal disease, it also addresses cosmetic concerns such as a gummy smile. This procedure aims to restore the health and appearance of gums, ensuring better oral health and aesthetics. Key Facts Gingivoplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes and contours the gums It can be done for cosmetic reasons or to treat gum diseases The procedure is typically performed by a periodontist or a dentist with training in periodontal procedures Costs for gingivoplasty can vary widely based on the extent of the procedure, location, and insurance coverage The procedure involves reshaping the…
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Gum Recession: Treatment, Surgery, Causes and Prevention
Key Facts Gum recession refers to the process in which the margin of the gum tissue that surrounds the teeth wears away or pulls back It exposes more of the tooth or the tooth’s root Receding gums can be a sign of gum disease, but other factors such as genetics, aggressive tooth brushing, tobacco use, and hormonal changes can also contribute Gum recession is common among adults over the age of 40, but it can also occur in younger individuals Several factors including periodontal diseases, genetics, and lifestyle choices contribute to gum recession If left untreated, gum recession can lead to tooth sensitivity, decay, and eventually tooth loss Treatment options…
