The soft tissues surrounding your teeth are known as gums. This tissue holds your teeth in place while protecting the root fibers connecting your teeth to the jawbone. The gums protect your teeth and their roots from the foods you eat. As bacteria is everywhere, it is also present in your mouth. The most extreme case of damage is holes in gums. This alarming situation could be painful and irreversible if not treated by a professional.
Over time, the acidic nature of your diet will damage your gums. Excess bacteria in your teeth will also influence them. If you are inconsistent in your dental care, plaque and tatar could build up over your teeth. This layer of plaque and tartar will keep damaging your teeth 24/7. Your gums are the main line of defense for your teeth’ roots against this bacteria. They play a very significant role in the protection of your teeth. Caring for your gums will lead to a healthier smile.
Causes of Small Holes In Gums
The reason could be anything from a wound to inflammation, disease, or infection. The real cause could only be determined after a detailed examination. Some appointments with the dentist are mandatory in such cases. So, if you fear going to the dentist, remember that ignorance of the issue will lead to something much worse. Therefore, you better make sure that you let a dentist diagnose your gums as soon as possible. If you are wondering why there is a hole in my gums, here are some possible reasons for your information.
Gingivitis
This is the earliest stage of gum disease, and it is fairly common. This disease is caused by bacterial infection. Bleeding gums and sensitive teeth are common, but holes could form due to severe inflammation. Luckily this is the stage that is easily treatable and reversible. If your dentist diagnoses you have gingivitis, you can improve your dental hygiene to reverse your condition.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is an extreme case of gingivitis. If you ignore gingivitis for long periods, it will lead to periodontitis, which is irreversible. In this case, your gums will start to recede and expose the roots of your teeth. During this deterioration, small holes in gums could form and bleed. If periodontitis is detected early, it can be managed and spotted from progressing any further, but the damage done is irreversible.
Tooth Extraction
If you have gone through recent tooth extraction, holes can form on your gums. This is common and harmless. These holes only occur due to the empty sockets and will heal in a few days.
Chronic Periodontitis
Chronic periodontitis is difficult to detect as it progresses very slowly. Sometimes the gums could take decades to recede, but bleeding and teeth sensitivity is consistent. Damage done over such long periods could be small but irreversible. The formation of holes in your gums would also be slow, but if it reaches such a point, you can’t reverse it.
Necrotizing Periodontitis Disease
Necrotizing periodontitis is not a disease but a symptom of something much worse. This condition happens due to some much bigger illness like HIV or diabetes.
Conclusion
Holes in gums are not a common condition. Whatever the reason is, it is at its extreme. You will need to schedule a dentist appointment as soon as possible. If you are suffering from this condition, please contact Almond dental at our St. Anthony location at 612-782-7000 or our Maple Grove location at (763) 762-7177.