Understanding Gum Tissue Sloughing: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Understanding Gum Tissue Sloughing

Gum tissue sloughing, also known as desquamative gingivitis, refers to the peeling and soreness of the gums. It typically occurs when the outer layers of gum tissue become irritated and start to peel off. This reveals the inner layers of tissue which are very sensitive and can be quite painful.

What Causes Gum Tissue to Slough Off?

There are several potential causes of gum tissue sloughing:

• Using a new toothpaste - Especially whitening toothpastes or those with harsh abrasives
• Brushing too hard or with a hard-bristled toothbrush
• Trauma from dental work like fillings or braces
• Periodontal disease damaging the gum tissues
• Viral, fungal, or bacterial infections
• Autoimmune conditions
• Chemotherapy treatment
• Nutritional deficiencies

Symptoms of Gum Tissue Sloughing

You may be experiencing gum tissue sloughing if you notice the following symptoms:

• Bleeding, sore, or sensitive gums
• Gums that look red or swollen
• Gum tissue that peels away easily when brushing or flossing
• Exposed underlayers of gum tissue after peeling occurs
• Bad breath even after brushing

Treatment and Prevention of Gum Tissue Sloughing

If you are experiencing gum pain and sloughing, it's important to see your dentist to determine the underlying cause. Treatment will depend on the cause but may include:

Treating Any Infections

If a bacterial, viral or fungal infection is causing the gum irritation, your dentist may prescribe antibiotic rinses, gels or pills to clear up the problem. Fixing the infection will allow your gums to heal.

Improving Oral Hygiene

Practicing gentle but thorough oral hygiene can help prevent further gum irritation. Steps include:

• Choose a soft/ultrasoft toothbrush and brush gently twice per day
• Floss once daily, taking care not to roughly scrape the gums
• Use antiseptic mouth rinses to kill harmful bacteria
• Avoid abrasive toothpastes with whitening agents or harsh ingredients

Applying Medicated Treatments

Your dentist may prescribe special rinses, gels or medicated balms to apply to irritated gums after brushing. These treatments protect the gums and speed healing after tissue sloughing.

Taking Supplements

Nutritional deficiencies could be making your gums more vulnerable to damage. Your dentist may recommend supplements like Vitamin C, Coenzyme Q10 or Zinc to support gum health.

When to See Your Dentist

You should make an appointment with your dentist right away if:

• Your gums are bleeding excessively or you see signs of infection like pus
• Gum pain and sensitivity is severe or persists for more than 1-2 weeks
• You have gum recession and loosening teeth due to tissue loss
• You have symptoms like fever, fatigue or rashes indicating an underlying medical issue

Seeing your dentist promptly can help diagnose and treat the gum sloughing before further complications occur.

Ask Your Dentist

When you see the dentist about desquamative gingivitis, be sure to ask:

• What is causing my gum tissue to peel and bleed?
• Do I need any tests to check for viral/bacterial infections or nutritional deficiencies?
• What over-the-counter products do you recommend for gum pain and healing?
• Should I take any supplements to improve my gum health?

Understanding what is causing your gum problems will help you and your dentist create an effective treatment plan.

Outlook for Healing Gum Tissue Sloughing

With proper treatment, most cases of gum tissue sloughing will resolve within several weeks. Practicing good oral hygiene and managing any underlying illnesses are key to preventing recurrences.

In rare cases, desquamative gingivitis can be a sign of serious autoimmune conditions that require coordination with a physician. Follow your dentist's instructions carefully and report any worsening of symptoms right away.

While gum tissue sloughing can be uncomfortable in the short-term, identifying the trigger and adjusting your oral hygiene routine can set your gums up for long-term health.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.