Hole in Gum Line & How to Treat Periodontitis

July 20, 2021

Periodontitis is a gum disease that involves bacterial infection of the area around the teeth. This may be caused due to a variety of reasons. However, its symptoms may not be very noticeable, especially in the early stages. If the condition is not treated by seeing a dentist, the situation will get worse to the point where you may end up losing a tooth. Therefore, if you see any signs of gum bleeding or gum recession, it is crucial that you make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.

A great way to ensure that you do not suffer from this disease is to have your mouth and teeth professionally cleaned twice a year. A dentist can treat various oral diseases before they become worse and more aggressive.

Let’s have a look at what periodontitis is, what types of periodontitis exist and what are the different types of treatments for the condition.

What is Periodontitis?

Periodontitis is an inflammation that occurs around the teeth and on the soft tissues of the gums. It begins with a mild bacterial infection often called gingivitis and, if not treated soon, worsens into a more serious condition known as periodontitis. It can look like there are holes in the gum region. Another way that it affects the mouth is by causing receding gums. Eventually, it can reach the deeper layers of the gum, causing the teeth to loosen and fall out. Periodontitis can also affect the jaw internally if the condition worsens.

Types of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease has a few types depending on the cause and symptoms. They are Chronic Periodontitis, Aggressive Periodontitis, Necrotizing Periodontitis and Periodontitis caused by other diseases.

1. Chronic Periodontitis

This type of periodontitis is caused as a result of gum inflammation. The teeth look longer as the gums recede. If not treated at this stage, the teeth start becoming loose. This is one of the most common forms of periodontitis.

2. Aggressive Periodontitis

Aggressive periodontitis is seen in healthy individuals. In this kind of gum condition, the teeth become loose at a rapid speed, and the structural integrity of the bone disintegrates quickly. The probability of this condition is highly genetic. Therefore, individuals who have a family history of periodontitis must see their dentist regularly as a precautionary measure.

3. Necrotizing Periodontitis

HIV, malnutrition and immunosuppression are some of the health conditions that are primarily responsible for this kind of periodontitis. Hence, it is more frequently observed in a population that is poverty-stricken and has a lower standard of living.

4. Periodontitis Due to Other Health Conditions

This condition occurs in people who have diabetes, heart conditions or respiratory issues. Therefore, many young patients find out that they are suffering from these other health issues when they see their dentist. Clearly, dental issues can be a precursor to other health-related conditions and therefore, more people should make it a point to book an appointment with their dentist from time to time.

Course Of Treatments

A dentist will first examine the patient thoroughly to judge the intensity of the gum infection. After that, your doctor will decide which course of treatment would be better suited for the patient.

1. Scaling and Root Planing

One of the first steps to take in order to treat periodontitis is removing the plaque that is responsible for the infection in the first place. This is performed by a dentist using professional equipment and must only be performed by a doctor in a clinic.

The receding of gums is controlled by root planning of the gums. Root planning smoothes out the gums, which eventually aids in reattaching the gums.

Scaling and root planing can be slightly uncomfortable. To minimise the discomfort, local anaesthesia is applied. The procedure must be performed more than once if the periodontitis is at a more advanced stage.

2. Tissue Regeneration

Gum holes formed due to periodontitis can be treated with tissue regeneration. Here the gum is cleaned from the inside out by moving the gum flap aside. The plaque is removed using special tools to make sure the bacterial growth does not come back. A piece of tissue from another part of the mouth is used. This area gets regenerated and looks as good as new.

3. Pocket Elimination

Pocket Elimination is a technique that is used when the condition is worse, and the gap or hole in between the gum and the teeth is very large to cover. Here the gum flap is removed in such a way that the internal area can be cleaned properly. The plaque is removed the same way as it is done in tissue regeneration. The next step involves reattaching the gum flap so that the gap fills with time and the appearance of the ‘hole’ is reduced naturally.

4. Dental Implants

In the case that the condition has caused a tooth to loosen and come out, dental implants can be very helpful. The socket is cleaned thoroughly, and the dentist gives antibiotics to stop bacterial growth. After ensuring that the dental hygiene of the patient is back to its healthy state, the dentist then gives the go-ahead for the dental implants. The implants are fixed in the socket, which takes about two appointments and approximately six to eight weeks.

Understanding the Small Hole in the Gum:

1. Identification and Location:

Ever felt puzzled about those small openings in your gum, especially behind your molars? People might call them a “hole in the gum behind the molar” or “hole in my gum.” While these spaces usually don’t cause pain, they can bring some discomfort.

Noticed Behind Molars: These small holes in the gum behind molars catch your attention when you least expect it.
Patient Descriptions: When people talk about them, they might say things like “I feel a hole in my gum” or “There’s a hole in my gum behind my molar.”

2. Possible Causes:

Unravelling the reasons behind these small holes can shed light on why they appear.

Trauma or Injury: Accidental bumps or injuries to your gum tissue might lead to these tiny openings, creating a sensation of a “hole in the gum.”
Infection: Bacterial or viral infections could be culprits, causing localised issues in your gum and forming these small holes.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction: If you’ve recently had a wisdom tooth removed, it’s not unusual to spot a small hole in your gum afterwards. Patience is key here, as it takes some time to fully heal
Gum Disease: Conditions like gingivitis or periodontitis can contribute to gum recession, giving rise to these small holes.

3. Wisdom Tooth Extraction and Small Gum Holes:

Dealing with a hole in the gum after wisdom tooth extraction is a common experience.

Post-Extraction Observation: It’s quite usual to see a small hole after a wisdom tooth is removed. Don’t worry; it’s often the space where the tooth used to be.
Closure Takes Time: Be patient; these holes may take some time to fully heal. Ensuring good oral hygiene during the healing process is vital to prevent any complications.

Understanding the reasons behind these small holes helps us address concerns and take the right steps towards maintaining a comfortable and healthy oral environment.

Treatment Options for Small Holes in the Gum:

1. Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene:

Ensuring your oral hygiene is top-notch is crucial in preventing and healing small holes in the gum.

Regular Brushing and Flossing: Consistent brushing and flossing play a very important role in preventing infections and promoting the natural healing process. Pay extra attention to the affected area while brushing.
Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid unnecessary irritation to the sensitive gum tissue.

2. Warm Saltwater Rinse:

A simple yet effective method to keep the affected area clean and reduce inflammation.

Gargle with Warm Saltwater: Mix a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. Gently rinse your mouth, ensuring the solution reaches the small hole in the gum.

3. Topical Antiseptic Gels:

Prescribed antiseptic gels are valuable tools in aiding the healing process.

Application Technique: Apply the antiseptic gel as directed by your dentist, focusing on the area with the small hole. These gels not only prevent infections but also contribute to tissue regeneration.

4. Avoiding Irritants:

Steering clear of certain irritants promotes a smoother healing process.

Tobacco, Spicy Foods and Alcohol: Avoid tobacco, spicy foods and alcohol during the healing period, as they may irritate the gum tissue. Opt for a soft diet that won’t aggravate the sensitive area.

5. Regular Dental Check-ups:

Consistent dental check-ups are essential for monitoring the progress of healing and seeking professional guidance.

Scheduled Monitoring: Regularly schedule check-ups with your dentist to ensure the small hole is healing as expected. Dentists can provide valuable insights into the recovery process and offer additional advice.
Professional Advice: If the small hole persists or shows signs of infection, seek professional advice promptly. Early intervention can prevent potential complications and ensure a smoother healing journey.

By incorporating these simple and effective strategies, you actively contribute to the healing of small holes in the gum. Remember, maintaining a proactive approach to your oral health is key to a comfortable and radiant smile. If you encounter persistent issues or have concerns about the healing process, don’t hesitate to consult with your dentist for personalised guidance.

A Proactive Approach to Optimal Oral Wellness At Your Healthy Smile

A small hole in the gum, whether behind a molar or a hole in the gum after wisdom tooth extraction, can be an issue. Understanding the causes and adopting appropriate treatment measures are vital for a swift and complication-free recovery. Remember, maintaining and following good oral hygiene practices and seeking professional guidance ensures that your smile remains healthy and vibrant. Embrace the journey towards optimal oral health and let your radiant smile shine.

Ensuring your oral health and well-being are in top-notch condition is essential for a confident and healthy smile. At Your Healthy Smile, our experienced team is dedicated to providing comprehensive dental care, addressing concerns such as small holes in the gum, wisdom tooth extraction aftermath and more. Your smile is our priority and we offer personalised solutions tailored to your unique needs. Book an appointment today and take the first step towards maintaining optimal oral hygiene.

If you happen to notice any symptoms of gum recession or gum holes, contact your dentist immediately. You can also seek our dental service in St. Clair. Contact us here.