Catarrhal gingivitis is a pathological process characterized by the development of an inflammatory process in the gums. In this case, there is no violation of the integrity of the periodontal attachment, and the tooth is not exposed. But in the absence of proper treatment, catarrhal gingivitis contributes to the development of complications. Catarrhal gingivitis
What is catarrhal gingivitis
The disease is characterized by inflammation of the gums, affecting the superficial periodontal tissues. In the structure of inflamed gum lesions, this form of gingivitis occurs in 90% of cases. Its advantage is diagnosed in children and young people under 30 years of age.
Causes of the appearance of catarrhal gingivitis
The pathogenesis of the disease can occur for general and local reasons. Common reasons include:
- decreased immunity of the body;
- the progression of infectious diseases in the patient's body;
- endocrine system pathology;
- interruptions in the work of the intestines;
- disruption of the cardiovascular system;
- changes in the hormonal background of the body.
Catarrhal gingivitis symptoms
The following symptoms will help to recognize the pathological process:
- burning and severe pain concentrated in the gum area;
- severe hyperemia of the gingival tissue;
- swelling;
- bleeding from the joints of the gums and teeth;
- hypertrophy of the gingival papillae;
- severe contamination of the enamel in the form of a yellow or grayish coating;
- hyperthermia;
- Strong headache;
- general weakness.
Attention! The presented clinical picture indicates the presence of acute catarrhal gingivitis.
Classification of catarrhal gingivitis
Spicy
With the progression of the pathology in an acute form, the patient develops pain and discomfort. The acute form of catarrhal gingivitis occurs spontaneously. The first symptom is severe pain in the gum area. In addition, the person's general condition worsens and the body temperature rises sharply.
Catarrhal gingivitis. Photo. For the acute form of pathology, the following symptoms are characteristic:
- severe pain in the gum area;
- a burning sensation in the affected gum;
- staining the gingival mucosa in a bright red color;
- swelling with drops of blood;
- swelling of the papillae;
- plaque formation on the teeth and gums;
- a sharp jump in temperature;
- severe headache;
- general weakness.
The combination of these signs indicates that an intensive development of an acute form of the inflammatory process occurs in the human body.
Attention! In the absence of qualified assistance and effective therapy, an acute form of pathology will turn into a chronic one.
Chronic
Chronic catarrhal gingivitis is an advanced form of the pathological process, which is formed in the absence of adequate therapy and untimely diagnosis of the acute form of the disease. The clinical picture is not pronounced.
The only thing that a person experiences is discomfort while eating or when performing oral hygiene procedures. The chronic form is characterized by the following symptoms:
- when eating and brushing your teeth, there is pain, burning and itching in the gum area;
- blood while brushing your teeth;
- interdental papillae increase in size and change their color;
- papillae and teeth are loosely attached to each other;
- the inflamed gum becomes bluish in color;
- the gingival margin is slightly thickened.
The chronic form is characterized by the preservation of the stability of the teeth, so they are not subject to pathological mobility.
Attention! If there is loosening of the teeth, this indicates that the inflammatory process in the gum area has turned into periodontitis.
Degrees of development of catarrhal gingivitis
Easy
For a mild form of pathology, slight inflammation is characteristic. It is concentrated in the area of the periodontal papillae. This form of gingivitis is not accompanied by unpleasant symptoms. Slight redness in the periodontal area will help to suspect it, and it can only be detected with the help of hardware diagnostics.
Average
This stage is characterized by the spread of the inflammatory process to the interdental and gingival areas. Therapy of this form is simple, but long-lasting.
Heavy
This stage of catarrhal gingivitis is characterized by inflammation of the large part of the gums surrounding the teeth. Sometimes damage affects the tissues of the alveolar region.
Diagnostics of the catarrhal gingivitis
It is possible to identify the pathological process and diagnose "catarrhal gingivitis" only when carrying out certain hardware procedures and special texts. There are popular diagnostic methods:
- hygiene index according to Fedorov-Volodina - the result should be more than one;
- PMA index - the result must be more than one;
- Kulazhenko test - helps to determine the site of hematoma development;
- Schiller-Pisarev test - the result must be positive.
In addition to the tests listed, the following methods can be used to determine catarrhal gingivitis:
- Visual inspection. Diagnosis is based on the clinical picture and characteristic symptoms.
- Rheoparodontography and Doppler flowmetry. These diagnostic methods make it possible to assess the microcirculation in the periodontal tissues.
- Analysis of the quantitative and qualitative composition of the gingival fluid. This allows you to determine the presence of inflammation and changes in the gingival structures.
- Probing gingival pockets. This procedure allows you to determine the pathology of tooth mobility.
- X-ray. This method is necessary to determine the integrity of the bone tissue of immobile processes.
Treatment of catarrhal gingivitis in adults and children
Treatment of pathology occurs in several stages. First of all, the doctor determines the cause of the development of the pathology. If it is caries, defects of lips, bite, then first it is necessary to eliminate all this. Otherwise, it threatens with relapses.
Attention! Also, the doctor can send you to check the gastrointestinal tract, endocrine system and immunity. Complex therapy may be required.
Physiotherapy
The catarrhal form of the disease refers to the initial stage. To eliminate it, ultrasonic cleaning and drug therapy are used. From physiotherapy, the following procedures are useful:
- Hydromassage of gums. It improves blood circulation in the periodontium and is an excellent prevention of inflammatory gum pathologies.
- Exposure to short-spectrum UV rays. The constant high voltage electric field reduces the manifestations of intoxication, stimulates the general reactivity of the patient's body.
- Electrophoresis. Normalizes the state of the patient's nervous system, soothes him
Hydromassage of gums The indicated manipulations are painless. Their main task is to improve tissue trophism and remove accumulated toxins. The course of therapy is 5-10 sessions.
Drug treatment
As a pharmacy, the doctor may prescribe:
- Chlorhexidine. This is a rinse solution. With its help, you can stop inflammation and reduce pain. Rinse 2 times a day.
- Oil solutions of vitamins A and E. Apply them directly to the affected area 1 time per day. They reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Antimicrobial ointments: Romazulan, Metrogyl Denta, Cholisal. Apply them to the affected gums 1-2 times a day. The duration of therapy is determined by the attending physician. They effectively deal with symptoms, inflammation and speed up the healing process.
Folk remedies
To combat the disease, you can use proven folk remedies. Use them only in combination with physical therapy and medication to relieve symptoms. The following recipes are effective:
- Pine needles. Take them in an amount of 40 g, pour 250 ml of boiling water. Insist 1 hour. Filter and rinse. Carry out medical manipulations 3-4 times a day.
- Sage and chamomile. Take each 20 g, pour a glass of boiling water. Infuse for 20 minutes, filter and use for rinsing. Treatment is carried out 2-3 times a day.
- Aloe juice. You just need to chew the washed leaves of the plant. Enough 2-3 leaves a day. Aloe effectively relieves inflammation and swelling.
- Horseradish juice. Grind the root with a blender, squeeze the juice onto cheesecloth. Dilute the juice with water in a 1: 1 ratio. Use a rinse 2 times a day.
- Sea buckthorn oil. With its help, you can quickly stop the inflammatory process. Hold the oil in your mouth (10 minutes) and then spit it out. Carry out the procedure 3 times a day.
Prevention of catarrhal gingivitis
The main reason for the development of catarrhal gingivitis is the violation of cultural and hygienic measures in the oral cavity. To do this, you must adhere to the following recommendations:
- Every day, thoroughly clean your teeth so that plaque does not remain on them.
- Use dental floss to remove stuck food. An antiseptic is also suitable for this purpose.
- If you experience any discomfort in the mouth, seek medical attention immediately.
- Avoid injury to the oral cavity.
Consequences and complications of catarrhal gingivitis
A neglected form of gingivitis is a real problem for humans. Its complications are dangerous not only for the soft tissues of the gums. With the prolonged development of the pathological process, this is fraught with periodontitis. It leads to loosening and loss of teeth.
His treatment is much more difficult and time-consuming. In addition, the infectious process can affect bone tissue. Bacteria enter the bloodstream and spread to other organs. One of the most dangerous complications is kidney damage. An even advanced chronic form of catarrhal gingivitis can turn into necrotic ulcerative.
Catarrhal gingivitis is an unpleasant gum disease that causes pain and a burning sensation in the mouth. Because of this, a person cannot fully eat, drink, and even talk. To begin treatment of the disease immediately after the detection of the first symptomatology, otherwise the pathological process develops into a chronic form.
- periodontal disease, characterized by serous (catarrhal) inflammation of the gums. Local changes in catarrhal gingivitis include edema, hyperemia (or cyanoticity) of the gingival mucosa, soreness and bleeding of the gingival margin, the presence of dental plaque, and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. In the diagnosis of catarrhal gingivitis, clinical examination, determination of dental indices, and X-ray examination are used. Treatment of catarrhal gingivitis can be local (removal of dental plaque, periodontal applications and dressings, physiotherapy, massage) and general (taking anti-inflammatory, desensitizing, vitamin preparations).
General information
Catarrhal gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums that affects the superficial periodontal tissues and proceeds without damaging the gingival attachment. In dentistry, the following clinical and morphological forms of gingivitis are distinguished: catarrhal, erosive-ulcerative, hypertrophic, plasmacytic, desquamative, granulomatous and atrophic. In the structure of inflammatory lesions of the gums, catarrhal gingivitis occurs most often - in 90% of cases. Usually, catarrhal gingivitis is diagnosed in children and young people (up to 30 years old). Men are more likely to develop catarrhal gingivitis than women.
Causes
Catarrhal gingivitis occurs under the influence of local and systemic factors. Catarrhal gingivitis in children may be associated with teething; in this case, after the tooth crown comes out of the gums, the inflammation subsides.
Local factors contributing to the development of catarrhal gingivitis can be tooth trauma (crown fracture, tooth dislocation, etc.), cervical caries, malocclusion, dental anomalies (dystopia, crowding) and soft tissues of the oral cavity (short frenum of the lips, small vestibule); unsatisfactory dental care, tartar, defects in the placement of fillings, dentures, aesthetic veneers or orthodontic appliances, etc.
In the etiology of catarrhal gingivitis, general factors play an important role in the increased susceptibility of some people to inflammatory periodontal diseases. These include such physiological periods of life as puberty, pregnancy, menopause; bad habits (smoking); diseases (diabetes mellitus, stomach ulcer, chronic hepatitis, hypo- and hyperthyroidism, leukemia, HIV infection, etc.); viral infections (flu, ARVI); hypo- and avitaminosis (scurvy, pellagra); taking medications (cytostatics, immunosuppressants, oral hormonal contraceptives).
Currently, the generally recognized trigger mechanism for the development of catarrhal gingivitis is the presence of dental plaque (microbial plaque, or biofilm). The composition of the microbial plaque includes aerobic (staphylococci, streptococci, actinomycetes) and anaerobic microorganisms (fusobacteria, prevotella, porphyromonas, treponema, etc.) with a predominance of the latter. The damaging potential of microbial accumulations largely depends on the state of the body's defenses and immune status. Thus, the main provoking moments in the development of catarrhal gingivitis are unsatisfactory oral hygiene and a violation of the general homeostasis of the body.
Classification
Depending on the nature of the course, catarrhal gingivitis is acute and chronic. According to the prevalence of inflammation, catarrhal gingivitis can be localized (in the area of 1-3 teeth) or generalized, diffuse (in the area of one or both jaws).
Taking into account the severity of the lesion in periodontology, there are 3 degrees of catarrhal gingivitis:
- light - with inflammatory lesions of the periodontal papillae
- middle - with inflammation of the interdental and free gingival region (marginal part of the gum)
- severe - with the involvement of the entire gum in the inflammatory process, including its alveolar part.
Catarrhal gingivitis symptoms
In acute catarrhal gingivitis, hyperemia, swelling of the gums in the area of several or all of the teeth is determined. Bleeding of the gums is characteristic, the severity of which depends on the intensity of the inflammation. There is a burning sensation and pain in the affected areas. Pain and bleeding of the gingival mucosa are intensified during meals, palpation, brushing teeth, probing. With rare exceptions, the general condition with catarrhal gingivitis is usually not disturbed. With a severe course of catarrhal gingivitis, hyperthermia, muscle pain, and general malaise may occur.
In the chronic form of catarrhal gingivitis, the gum acquires a cyanotic color (congestive hyperemia), a roller-like thickening. Bleeding occurs at the slightest injury. There is a feeling of distention in the gums, a constant taste of blood, often - bad breath. During the period of exacerbation, these complaints intensify.
On examination, a change in the color and relief of the gums is revealed: it becomes bright red and loose; the gingival margin loses its scallop appearance; the interdental papillae become domed; sometimes areas of desquamation of the mucous membrane and single erosion are determined. The presence of an increased content of non-mineralized dental plaque or tartar is typical. Pathological periodontal pockets with catarrhal gingivitis are absent; the teeth remain stable and immobile.
Diagnostics
Catarrhal gingivitis is diagnosed during examination of the oral cavity by a qualified dentist or periodontist based on the clinical signs and subjective sensations listed above, adjusted for objective and instrumental data.
In order to assess the local status in catarrhal gingivitis, dental indices are used - semi-quantitative indicators reflecting the state of the oral cavity: Silnes-Loe or Green-Vermillion index (to determine the amount of microbial plaque in the cervical region), papillary-marginal-alveolar index (Schiller-Pisarev test to assess the intensity of inflammation), probe test (to assess the degree of bleeding of the gums), etc.
Of particular interest in catarrhal gingivitis may be the data of rheoperodontography, vital microscopy, Doppler flowmetry, which make it possible to assess microcirculation in periodontal tissues. According to the indications, an analysis of the qualitative and quantitative composition of the gingival fluid, biopsy and morphological examination of the gum tissue is carried out.
With panoramic radiography and orthopantomography in patients with catarrhal gingivitis, changes in the alveolar bone are not determined; in rare cases, with a prolonged course of chronic gingivitis, osteoporosis or resorption of the compact plate of interdental septa can be detected. Chronic catarrhal gingivitis should be distinguished from the edematous form of hypertrophic gingivitis, mild periodontitis, intraoral manifestations of various dermatoses - lichen planus, medical dressings, the development of periodontitis.
Often, problems with teeth begin in people because they ignored diseases of the gums and periodontal tissues for a long time, and also did not attach importance to such a phenomenon as catarrhal gingivitis in time. As a result, the inflammatory process on the mucous membrane gradually began to affect the ligaments that firmly hold the tooth in the hole.
We do not want readers to miss the characteristic signs of seemingly harmless, but in the long term very dangerous diseases. Therefore, if you are on guard of your health, then read the material below.
What is hidden behind the concept of "catarrhal gingivitis"
The disease is included in the list of the international classification of diseases ICD-10, developed by WHO. Catarrhal gingivitis is characterized by superficial inflammation of the gums. Dental tissues and ligaments are not affected. The disease is the most common form of gingivitis, compared with granulomatous and atrophic, erosive and desquamative pathologies, it occurs in 90% of all clinical cases.
Experts note that mainly children are susceptible to this form of the disease, as well as young people, mainly males, who have not yet reached the age of 35.
Who has every chance of getting sick
Catarrhal gingivitis and adults due to the following triggers:
- teething: in this case, the pathology is acute, and its manifestations subside after the crown of the tooth breaks out of the gum,
- violation of oral hygiene: if you neglect to brush your teeth and gums, interdental spaces, then be prepared that the plaque on your enamel is mineralized, i.e. will become very dense, and bacteria will continually multiply on it, which will begin to infect the mucous membrane at the slightest weakening of immunity or injury,
- work in hazardous production, living in ecologically unfavorable areas,
- trauma to the mucous membrane: for example, in children, injury can be caused by a blow or fall, foreign objects in the mouth. Regardless of age, pathology can occur against the background of thermal and chemical burns, damaged teeth - for example, a tooth has broken off or has occurred, the patient suffers from cervical caries. The cause of injury can be an incorrect bite, the presence of poorly fitted crowns and dentures, dystopic,
- deterioration of the composition of saliva or its absence: dry mouth is a reason to take care of saturation of the body with water, because it is the absence of saliva or the deterioration of its protective properties that often causes excessive reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms in the mouth. The composition of saliva deteriorates in people with vitamin deficiency, metabolic disorders and endocrine abnormalities, in pregnant women, women during menopause, women taking oral contraceptives, in adolescents, in those with diabetes,
- diseases: any cold disease that reduces overall immunity, for example, influenza or ARVI, can cause an inflammatory process on the mucous membrane, as well as an exacerbation of chronic catarrhal gingivitis. And also taking antibiotics and medicines against it. Naturally, more serious problems - HIV, leukemia, hepatitis, ulcers - can also be the cause.
Clinic manifestation of pathology
A history of catarrhal gingivitis is usually accompanied by swelling of the mucous membrane, a change in its shade from pink to bright red. At first, the process affects one or more teeth, it manifests itself quite sharply, which indicates the acute stage of the course of the disease. The patient is accompanied by bleeding and itching in the gums, a feeling of distention, a burning sensation. Bleeding becomes stronger with the spread and aggravation of the inflammatory process. Further, discomfort and pain appear at the moments of eating: in the absence of treatment, painful sensations arise with any palpation of the mucous membrane, with any mechanical effect and pressure, when brushing teeth.
“Usually the general condition of the patient with acute catarrhal gingivitis does not worsen, and symptoms such as weakness and lethargy, an increase in body temperature can occur only when the process extends to the entire dentition, ie. becomes generalized. But during the course of the chronic stage, many complain that bleeding of the gums occurs already against the background of the slightest physical impact, pressure. Also, patients have bad breath, gums become cyanotic and thicken, there is always a taste of blood or metal in the mouth, plaque begins to accumulate on the enamel faster and more intensely than usual "- explains Balakina Svetlana Anatolyevna, periodontist.
Catarrhal gingivitis: what it is
Doctors distinguish several forms and stages of the development of the disease.
| Classification | Views |
|---|---|
| By the nature of the flow |
|
| By area of distribution |
|
| By the severity of the lesion |
|
Important! In adults, from the onset of the onset of the disease until the detection of its vivid manifestations, it usually takes several days. In the absence of therapeutic measures and after three weeks, the pathology takes on a chronic stage.
What form of the disease is considered the most dangerous and why
Inflammation of the mucous membrane requires immediate treatment. After all, if you do not stop it, then gradually the disease will affect all the teeth and turn into chronic generalized catarrhal gingivitis. This form of pathology is considered the most dangerous, because it borders on an even more serious disease. Here, not only the superficial part of the mucous membrane and soft tissues of the gums is affected, but also the periodontal tissues are affected. They are responsible for the reliable retention of our teeth in the hole. Those. in generalized stages, the patient may feel that his teeth are loose, displaced and are about to fall out. This causes severe discomfort, it becomes very difficult to eat and chew food, plus an aesthetic component is added: the smile ceases to look attractive.
Important! Remember that with catarrhal gingivitis, the teeth are still immobile. But if you notice that they have begun to stagger, have lost their former stability, then the disease is likely complicated by periodontitis.
This pathology is no longer complete with conservative treatment, which takes several weeks. It will take months to get rid of the problem, in a complex manner, besides, it tends to recur. What is most dangerous, in generalized stages, specialists sometimes do not see any other way out but to remove infected teeth and replace them with removable dentures or fixed dentures on implants.
Also, a long course of chronic gingivitis can be complicated by the transition of the disease to the ulcerative-necrotic stage, periodontitis, abscess of the jaw bone or gum.
What the doctor will prescribe
Treatment of catarrhal gingivitis cannot be started without diagnostics, which will be carried out by a dentist, or even better if the clinic has a periodontist who will do all the work. To begin with, the patient can be assigned hardware research and probe tests - at this stage it is important to identify the absence of periodontal pockets and confirm the integrity of the ligamentous connection, tissues, the absence of pathological processes in the alveolar bone in order to differentiate the disease from periodontitis or osteoporosis.
It is also necessary to carry out X-ray diagnostics, to determine the degree of development of the inflammatory process based on the bleeding of the gums. If necessary, a specialist can also prescribe tests for the qualitative composition of the gingival fluid, biopsy and morphological studies of the gingival tissues. On their basis, the doctor differentiates the disease from lichen planus and other forms of dermatoses.
After the diagnosis is identified and confirmed, treatment for chronic catarrhal or acute gingivitis begins:
- Removal of dental plaque: without this procedure, subsequent therapy will be considered pointless, because will not give a positive result. With the help of professional devices, ultrasound and Air Flow, the doctor will remove all hard and soft bacterial plaque on the teeth and from under the gums,
- sanitation of the oral cavity: it is necessary to eliminate all those reasons that could serve as a trigger for the development of the disease - caries, old fillings, uncomfortable dentures,
- application of applications: for example, using "Solcoseryl" or "Holisal",
- rinses: usually, they need to be performed for 7-14 days after. At home, for these purposes, you can use "Chlorhexidine", "Miramistin", "Furacilin",
- taking medications: doctors do not always prescribe them, but only when the disease has become severe (for example, "Ascorutin") or has spread to all teeth. And also, when there is a pathology of internal organs (for example, diseases of the stomach, intestines, heart, diabetes mellitus - in this case, a narrow-profile specialist, endocrinologist or gastroenterologist should prescribe medication),
- therapy aimed at improving blood circulation in the mucous membrane and restoring gum tissue: for this purpose, you may be prescribed electrophoresis, darsonvalization, blood plasma injections, hydrotherapy, massage techniques - vacuum, hydromassage or vibromassage,
- consultations on proper oral hygiene: the doctor will definitely warn you that after occupational hygiene you will need to change the brush, as well as purchase a paste for sensitive teeth and gums. Also, a specialist will teach you, if necessary, the correct technique for cleaning the oral cavity.
What therapy is allowed at home
Only a doctor can treat catarrhal gingivitis, but at home you can only speed up the healing process of the mucous membrane with the help of a proper diet, including more foods rich in vitamins A, E, C, B. For the period of treatment, food should be soft enough so as not to injure excess times the gums. You should also maintain its temperature regime: it is better to refuse cold and hot so as not to irritate the inflamed mucosa. After the disease has completely disappeared, you can introduce into the diet hard vegetables and fruits, which serve as natural sources of cleansing the enamel and gums from plaque.
As for the use of folk remedies, it is enough to restrict ourselves to decoctions of herbs that help reduce bleeding and swelling, eliminate painful sensations, and antiseptics of the oral cavity. For example, chamomile and sage, oak bark.
Give up bad habits, such as smoking and drinking alcohol. By all means, try to maintain good immunity and lead a healthy lifestyle. Buy additional dental and gum care products - floss, irrigator.
These rules will continue to be an excellent prevention of all forms of gingivitis. And if you add to them careful monitoring of your health, timely visits to the dentist and narrow-profile specialists, then you can easily live with a beautiful smile to your very old years.
Related Videos
Catarrhal gingivitis is an inflammatory process of the gums, localized in the periodontal tissues and affecting only soft tissues, while the integrity of the gum-tooth junction is not disturbed.
Children and adolescents are most susceptible to catarrhal gingivitis; with age, the risk of the disease decreases or becomes more complex. The course of the disease, depending on the pathogen, can be either acute or chronic.
Causes of catarrhal gingivitis
Catarrhal gingivitis appears under the influence of either local or systemic factors. Among the local ones, the following can be distinguished: poor-quality oral hygiene, especially in cases where there are deposits on the tooth surface in the form of plaque or stones, dental interventions associated with dental prosthetics, filling or orthodontic treatment, dislocation or fracture of the tooth crown, malocclusion, non-standard arrangement of the lips, abnormal attachment of the frenum of the tongue, shallow vestibule, individual structure of the jaw, when the teeth have a heap and incorrect arrangement. In children, a possible cause of the onset of the disease is the process of teething, and after the crown of the tooth comes out of the gum, the inflammation subsides.
In the etiology of catarrhal gingivitis, some general factors play an important role, the effect of which can affect the development of the disease. Some of them are disruptions in the hormonal system, for example, the period of restructuring of the body: adolescence, pregnancy, menopause, malfunctioning of the thyroid gland, taking hormonal drugs, as well as the presence of bad habits (smoking). Patients with diabetes mellitus and leukemia are at risk and easily susceptible to catarrhal gingivitis. The disease can develop against the background of viral infections that weaken all the protective functions of the body. Intoxication with heavy metals, iodine or fluoride can provoke catarrhal gingivitis.
Patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiation therapy are also at risk. Thus, any disorder in the body - chronic or acquired - reduces the protective function of the gums, which allows the development of catarrhal gingivitis. Microorganisms living in the oral cavity, in the presence of any deposits in the form of stones or plaque, begin to maximize the production of toxic substances that adversely affect the weakened gum, which causes the pathological process. As a result, inflammation from small areas gradually spreads to the entire gum region and its immobile part, after which the complete clinical picture of the development of catarrhal gingivitis is already visible.
Classification of catarrhal gingivitis
Catarrhal gingivitis is classified according to the severity of the disease, form and location. The disease of various forms and stages does not start suddenly, but progresses, passing from one type to another. The following forms of catarrhal gingivitis are distinguished:
- acute catarrhal gingivitis (it is a consequence of intoxication of the body, may appear as a result of a viral illness - influenza or acute respiratory infections - against the background of weakened immunity, most often diagnosed in the spring and autumn periods);
- chronic catarrhal gingivitis (is a consequence of the previous acute gingivitis or may precede it);
Catarrhal gingivitis has the main types of localization - local and general:
- localized catarrhal gingivitis affects the gums within one or two teeth;
- generalized catarrhal gingivitis affects the entire gum.
Catarrhal gingivitis also differs in the severity of the course of the disease:
- mild - damage to the papillae of the gums;
- medium degree - damage to the part of the gum adjacent to the neck of the tooth;
- severe - damage to the entire gum, including the immobile part.
Catarrhal gingivitis symptoms
Catarrhal gingivitis of an acute form manifests itself in various symptoms that cause discomfort to the patient, with the disease there is pain and discomfort. Among the main symptoms of acute catarrhal gingivitis are the following:
- Sensation of acute pain.
- Periodic or persistent burning sensation in the affected area.
- The presence of itching in the gums.
- The appearance of puffiness near the lesions.
- Bleeding gums.
- The mucous membrane of the gums has a pronounced redness.
- A significant increase in the size of the gingival papillae;
- Presence of soft plaque.
- Increased body temperature.
- Deterioration of the general condition.
If, during self-diagnosis, the patient found one or more symptoms of the disease, it is necessary to urgently consult a dentist. If the treatment is not timely, the disease will go from an acute form to a chronic one with less pronounced symptoms. In addition to the main symptoms of the acute form of catarrhal gingivitis, the patient will feel discomfort during hygiene procedures for cleansing the mouth and eating. The main symptoms of chronic catarrhal gingivitis are as follows:
- Pain syndrome.
- A burning sensation and itching when touching the gums.
- Thickening and thickening of the gingival margin.
- Loose gum papilla adhesion to the teeth.
- Changes in the color and size of the gum papillae.
- Blue color of gums overflowing with blood.
- Bad breath.
Often, chronic catarrhal gingivitis is found during a routine examination by a dentist or during a period when the disease begins to worsen.
Diagnostics of the catarrhal gingivitis
Diagnosing catarrhal gingivitis is not difficult for a dentist or therapist. To establish a diagnosis, the patient is interviewed and the oral cavity is examined. In the process, the doctor can determine whether the infection is bacterial or viral. In order to identify the type of bacteria that provoked the onset of catarrhal gingivitis, scraping from the affected areas is prescribed.
In addition to general diagnostics, differential diagnostics is used to determine the form of gingivitis, which helps to distinguish between catarrhal, hypertrophic and chronic gingivitis, since they all have a similar clinical picture of manifestation: bleeding gums, painful sensations and redness of the gums.
Diagnosis with dental instruments involves probing the gingival pockets. This allows you to determine the pathology of tooth mobility. In order to assess the integrity of the bone tissue of the immobile processes, an x-ray is prescribed.
Also, for an accurate diagnosis, patients are shown a general blood test and indexing of microbes and bleeding is performed. These studies allow you to accurately prescribe treatment and determine the form of the course of the disease.
Catarrhal gingivitis treatment
To eliminate catarrhal gingivitis, the doctor prescribes therapeutic treatment. It is aimed at getting rid of the harmful microflora of the oral cavity, which is the primary cause of the disease. In addition, it is necessary to eliminate general and local factors, against which the disease-causing process can begin or continue.
You can achieve the desired results with the help of local treatment, which includes cleaning the oral cavity at a professional level. The complex of therapy also implies orthodontic treatment, characterized by the replacement of previously installed fillings, change and reinstallation of prostheses or implants. It is also important to completely cure tooth decay.
Local treatment of catarrhal gingivitis consists in rinsing the mouth with antiseptic solutions, applying drugs to the affected areas of the gums, massaging the gums, using electrophoresis and paraffin therapy.
The general treatment of catarrhal gingivitis is carried out with the help of medications, the intake of which relieves inflammation, gives an analgesic effect, and increases immunity. Quite often, the general treatment for the disease involves taking antibiotics.
Depending on the cause of catarrhal gingivitis, for example, allergies, viral diseases, various infections and others, treatment is carried out in conjunction with other narrow specialists: endocrinologists, immunologists, gastroenterologists.
The prognosis for the treatment of catarrhal gingivitis will be favorable only if the patient notices discomfort in the oral cavity in a timely manner and turns to a specialist for a complete examination by the dentist, and also undergoes the prescribed course of treatment. If the treatment of acute catarrhal gingivitis is not started on time, there is a high risk that the disease will acquire a chronic form, which is much more difficult to cure. In some cases, the disease can cause the development of necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis and periodontitis.
Prevention of the disease consists in correct, timely and regular oral hygiene. To do this, you need to consult a dentist who will tell you how and when to brush your teeth, and will also help you choose the right toothbrush and toothpaste. It is important to undergo a preventive examination by a specialist twice a year.
Every person is faced with dental diseases. Among them is generalized gingivitis (also called catarrhal). This is an inflammatory disease of the periodontal tissue, in which catarrhal inflammation of the gums occurs. It is characterized by edema, hyperemia of the mucous membranes, painful sensations and bleeding. With catarrhal gingivitis, a person has an unpleasant odor from the mouth, and microbial plaque forms on the teeth.
Catarrhal gingivitis
Generalized gingivitis is typical for people under the age of thirty, and more often affects men than women. This form of the disease is the most common among all gingivitis.
Reasons for development
In each case, the prerequisites for the appearance of the disease are individual, but a number of factors can be identified that entail the development of this disease. These include local and general causes. Local include:
- insufficient care of the oral cavity, plaque formation;
- constant acidic environment in the oral cavity;
- Difficulty growing (erupting) teeth
- malformed bite;
- injury to soft tissues or teeth;
- defects arising from the installation of orthodontic appliances;
- congenital defects of teeth or soft tissues.
Common causes leading to catarrhal gingivitis:
- weakened human immunity;
- chronic diseases of the cardiovascular, endocrine or digestive systems;
- viral infections;
- the use of nicotine products;
- taking drugs that lower the level of immunity.
- For catarrhal gingivitis, several stages of development are characteristic.
Classification of gingivitis
The type of gingivitis depends on the severity of the disease, but it can be classified according to the extent of the disease and the nature of its course. This is necessary to establish the most accurate clinical picture and select the optimal treatment. Localization distinguishes:
- Generalized gingivitis, in which the lesion occurs throughout the oral cavity, the gums become inflamed evenly and over the entire surface.
- Chronic catarrhal gingivitis. If generalized catarrhal gingivitis is localized on the gums, then this form of gingivitis is characterized by a lesion of the gum areas in the area of one or more teeth.
Chronic gingivitis
In addition to the location, a huge number of gingivitis are divided according to the nature of the course of the disease. In this category, the inflammatory process can be of two types:
- Acute catarrhal gingivitis. Gum inflammation is local.
- Chronic generalized type. Periodic exacerbations, characteristic of acute forms, are accompanied. Inflammation is an advanced, acute degree of inflammation.
There are three stages according to the severity of the development of the disease:
- The mild form is characterized by slight reddening of the gums.
- Moderate severity includes damage to healthy areas of the gums.
- With gingivitis of the third degree, the alveoli also suffer from the inflammatory process. Characterized by an acute form that has a generalized appearance.
Treatment courses are selected according to the classification. Self-medication for catarrhal gingivitis is contraindicated, because the patient can only worsen the already existing clinical picture.
Necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis - an acute course of the disease
If you find the first symptoms of gingivitis, it is better to see a doctor right away.
The diagnosis may not be confirmed, but any inflammatory process in the oral cavity indicates a malfunction in the body. To detect the disease, differential diagnosis is carried out.
Symptoms
In acute gingivitis and its chronic form, the symptoms are completely different. You need to be able to distinguish between the first signs of the disease and take timely measures aimed at eliminating and treating symptoms. The acute form of the disease is characterized by:
- redness and itching in the area of occurrence of the disease;
- acute pain in the gums;
- deterioration in general health (body temperature rises, lethargy and weakness are observed, sometimes headaches);
- bleeding and swelling of the gums;
- redness of the mucous membrane at the site of the appearance of gingivitis.
Gingivitis - inflammation and bleeding of the gums
These signs appear when the disease is acute. Chronic gingivitis has other symptoms:
- feeling of pain and discomfort while eating;
- discomfort during hygiene procedures in the oral cavity;
- bleeding gums while brushing your teeth;
- stratification of interdental papillae and teeth;
- swelling of the gums at the site of the lesion locally or over the entire area.
If the disease is chronic, it is difficult to cure it; you can only take a set of measures aimed at alleviating the symptoms. Relapses are possible.
What the gums look like during an exacerbation of gingivitis
Diagnostics and treatment
A qualified specialist selects treatment depending on the criteria that characterize the course of the disease: the severity, nature and location of the disease. If gingivitis has a mild catarrhal stage, then the treatment may not include a medication course: it is enough to eliminate the inflammation and rinse your mouth with a chlorhexidine solution. The dentist can prescribe the following procedures:
- replacement of old orthodontic structures (if the cause of the inflammation lies in them);
- cleaning teeth from plaque and tartar (they often cause inflammation in the mouth; the patient is cleaned from soft and hard plaque).
To draw up a clinical picture, differential diagnostics of the oral cavity is carried out. The patient undergoes a full examination with all diagnostic procedures, after which the factor that caused the inflammation is identified and eliminated.
Chlorhexidine is used for rinsing
The course of treatment for advanced catarrhal gingivitis is on average about two weeks. Treatment can be divided into stages:
- Differential diagnosis and detection of the disease. Cleaning of teeth from plaque and calculus, examination of fillings and other orthodontic constructions is carried out.
- Elimination of the factor that caused the disease.
- Rinsing the mouth with a solution of chlorhexidine, the use of trays for the oral cavity based on this drug.
- In the absence of a visible result of such treatment, after two weeks, drug treatment is prescribed if the disease is severe or moderate.
- Therapeutic procedures: phonophoresis, darsonvalization, electrophoresis and UHF. Treatment for catarrhal gingivitis includes gum massage, diet, and vitamin therapy.
Preparations and rinses that are prescribed for the treatment of generalized catarrhal gingivitis:
- chlorhexidine;
- 3% hydrogen peroxide solution (with severe bleeding of the gums or while brushing your teeth);
- 1% solution "Etonia";
- 1% solution of potassium permanganate (potassium permanganate);
- Iodo-glycol paste;
- tin fluoride based pastes;
- butodione, acetylsalicylic anti-inflammatory ointments;
- a solution of chamomile, calendula, St. John's wort after eating and brushing your teeth.
Chamomile tincture is sold at the pharmacy
For the hypertrophic form, other treatment measures are required, along with the above:
- ointments "Dioxidin" or "Dioxil";
- 30% tincture of celandine or propolis;
- 40% glucose or calcium chloride solution in the form of injections into the gingival papillae (the course is from 3 to 8 procedures with a break of 1-2 days);
- laser or cryosurgical excision of the affected areas of the gingival tissue, followed by their cauterization;
- electrophoresis.
Propolis tincture is used for gargling
Treatment of acute catarrhal gingivitis is not difficult, especially if the differential diagnosis has been carried out correctly. The course of treatment includes a list of certain medications and rinsing the mouth with decoctions of herbs that have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects.
Treatment of chronic catarrhal gingivitis includes preventive measures that are simply necessary in the long-term course of the disease. To prevent the recurrence of gingivitis after treatment, the patient is advised to follow a diet: include more fortified foods in the diet and exclude from it foods that irritate the mucous membranes of the gums.
Conclusion
Gingivitis, whatever it may be (generalized, acute, chronic), is treatable. For this, differential diagnostics must be carried out correctly. The course of treatment is selected individually, taking into account the general state of health (including the presence of allergies to some drugs), food preferences, pregnancy, etc. The main thing is to consult a doctor on time and follow the prescribed treatment.
Loading ...