Gum overgrowth, medically known as operculum gum overgrowth, is a condition in which the gum overgrows or hinders the growth of teeth, especially wisdom teeth. If left untreated, this condition causes several dental issues, including gum infection and bacterial growth, which only adds to the discomfort in your mouth.
In this extensive blog, you will learn about this issue, why getting treatment at Peace of Mind Dental Studio in Chandler is important, and what measures are crucial to keep your dental health in check. So, read now!
Understanding Operculum Gum Anatomy
It is a common issue among grown-up adults; almost 90% of them suffer from at least one impacted wisdom tooth. An impacted tooth does not erupt normally but changes its way, considering the scarce space at the back of your mouth. In such cases, the gum covering the area creates a flap of thin gum tissue. This flap acts as a protective barrier, shielding the underlying tooth and surrounding tissues from debris, bacteria, and other irritants.
An operculum gum includes:
Operculum tooth
It is the tooth that is partially erupted and is partially covered by the operculum gum.
Gingival operculum
The flap of gum partially covering the tooth is called a gingival operculum in medical terms.
Operculum Gum
The surrounding gum tissues become inflamed due to the operculum, which is called operculum gum.
Causes of Operculum Gum Overgrowth
There are generally two causes of an operculum gum:
Dental Operculum
When gum erupts partially, it usually covers it partially, resulting in you biting down on it accidentally, causing gum overgrowth.
Inflammation
The flap created by gum overgrowth creates a pocket where food gets lodged, resulting in inflammation and even bacterial overgrowth if you practice poor oral hygiene. This results in inflammation and requires operculum treatment from the best cosmetic dentistry in Chandler.
Effects of Operculum Gum on Oral Health
Some of the detrimental effects of operculum gum on oral health are discussed here:
Gum Inflammation
Operculum gum tissue can become inflamed due to continual assault during biting, leading to pain, discomfort, and difficulty in even cleaning the inflamed area.
Bacterial Infection
When the tissue is swollen, it is difficult to clean the inflamed area. Also, when food is lodged in the pocket of the operculum gum, bacterial growth is much faster than normal, which increases the risk of infection.
Tooth Decay
Plaque buildup results from bacterial growth and leads to infection, which, if left untreated, results in cavities and tooth decay over time.
Preventive Measures for Operculum Gum Overgrowth
You can take proactive measures to prevent operculum gum overgrowth. Check these out:
Good Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is the panacea for all dental problems. Brush twice a day, floss, and use an antimicrobial mouthwash to prevent oral issues.
Avoiding Bad Habits
Bad habits, such as tobacco use and drinking often cause the inflammation in your operculum tooth.
Regular Dental Checkups
During your periodic dental checkups, your dentist can detect potential dental issues, including operculum gum, and detect issues early on.
Dentistry Solutions for Operculum Gum
In case you have operculum growth, dentists are the solution as they play a crucial role in preventing and treating operculum gum overgrowth. Some common dentistry solutions include:
Professional Dental Cleaning
When a flap is created during tooth eruption and the tooth is still erupting, you must visit your dentist for a professional dental cleaning. The flap creates challenges in cleaning the affected area with normal brushing. In such a situation, professional dental cleaning ensures your dental health is up to par.
Gum Surgery
When your overgrown gum is causing extreme discomfort and pain, gum surgery becomes inevitable. The dentist will create an incision in the gum or shape it to allow the teeth to erupt without a problem.
Cosmetic Dentistry Approaches
Gum overgrowth impacts the molars and can also affect your front teeth, the gum covering the teeth’s surface. In such a case, you must consult Peace of Mind Dental Studio, the best cosmetic dentistry in Chandler, where we offer gum contouring and reshaping to improve the aesthetics of your smile.
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Conclusion
Operculum gum overgrowth is a common dental problem that can harm oral health in multiple ways. Do not hesitate to contact a dentist.
At Peace of Mind Dental Studio, we advise our patients to contact us if they are experiencing discomfort during wisdom tooth eruption. We will thoroughly examine and use dental X-rays to detect anomalies, including operculum gum overgrowth. We offer complete treatment for operculum gum overgrowth. That’s why we are the most trusted cosmetic dentistry in Chandler.
Contact us today for an appointment!
Frequently Asked Questions
Que: Is operculum gum overgrowth common?
Ans: Gum overgrowth is a common issue, especially in adults dealing with wisdom tooth eruption.
Que: Can operculum gum overgrowth can result in tooth extraction?
Ans: If you do not seek professional help even during extreme pain and discomfort, it is very probable that you will develop a tooth infection, which leads to tooth decay. Once your tooth starts decaying, there is no stopping it without professional help. The last resort is tooth extraction if you don’t visit a dentist.
Que: Is gum overgrowth painful?
Ans: It is not painful until you bite down on the flap or it is inflamed. If you experience any pain, we advise you to consult us at Peace of Mind Dental Studio.