When pieces of your gums appear to be detaching, it is an alarming experience. This symptom, known as gingival sloughing or oral mucosal peeling, indicates an issue with the protective lining of your mouth. Understanding the potential reasons is the first step toward addressing it.
Understanding Why Gum Tissue Detaches
Gum tissue detachment occurs when the protective outer layer of the gums, the oral mucosa, sheds or peels away. The oral mucosa functions as a barrier, shielding deeper tissues from infection. When this layer separates, it leaves the underlying gum tissue vulnerable.
This process can involve tissue death (necrosis) or the shedding of damaged cells (sloughing). Severe inflammation can also lead to the detachment of the epithelial lining. Compromised gum tissue separates from healthy underlying structures, manifesting as visible peeling or sloughing.
Specific Causes and Associated Symptoms
Gum tissue detachment can stem from various factors, from common oral health issues to reactions to products or complex medical conditions. Identifying the specific cause often involves recognizing other associated symptoms.
Periodontal disease, an advanced form of gum disease, is a frequent underlying cause. Initially, gingivitis, the early stage, presents as red, swollen, bleeding gums. If left unaddressed, it can progress to periodontitis, where bacterial infections destroy tissues supporting teeth, causing gums to pull away and form pockets. This inflammation can lead to visible gum sloughing.
Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis (ANUG), sometimes called “trench mouth,” is a severe bacterial infection. It causes painful, bleeding gums, foul breath, and rapid tissue destruction, which can lead to necrosis and sloughing. This condition often results in crater-like lesions between the teeth and a gray film over the gums.
Chemical burns or irritation can also cause gum tissue to detach. This might occur from accidental exposure to harsh chemicals, strong mouthwashes, or some tooth whitening products. Toothpastes containing ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or those with a low pH can irritate the oral mucosa, leading to peeling gums. Over-the-counter whitening strips or gels, if they contact the gums, can also cause chemical burns.
Physical trauma or injury to the gums can result in tissue detachment. Aggressive brushing or flossing, ill-fitting dental appliances, or accidental injuries can irritate gum tissue, leading to sloughing or recession. Chewing on hard foods or objects might also cause localized damage.
Severe oral infections, including certain fungal or viral infections, can sometimes lead to gum tissue sloughing. While less common, these infections can cause widespread inflammation and tissue damage.
Systemic conditions and certain medications can also affect gum health. Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause can make gums more sensitive. Conditions like Crohn’s disease or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are sometimes associated with oral problems, including gum peeling. Diabetes can impair the body’s ability to fight infections.
When to Seek Immediate Dental Attention
Any instance of gum tissue detaching or peeling warrants professional dental evaluation. While some causes may be minor, others can indicate serious underlying conditions that require prompt intervention. Ignoring such symptoms can lead to worsening oral health and potentially broader health complications.
Immediate dental attention is advisable if you experience severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding from the gums, or a fever accompanying the tissue detachment. Difficulty eating or swallowing, rapid progression of symptoms, or widespread tissue loss are also indicators for urgent care. If the symptom occurs after a known injury or exposure to a chemical irritant, seeking prompt professional assessment is important.
Promoting Long-Term Gum Health
Maintaining good oral hygiene is fundamental to preventing gum tissue detachment. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are important for removing plaque and tartar buildup. Brushing teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled brush and flossing once a day helps remove food particles and plaque from gum lines.
Choosing appropriate oral care products also contributes to gum health; opting for toothpastes without irritating ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) can be beneficial for some individuals. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports healthy gum tissue, while avoiding tobacco products is essential, as tobacco use increases gum disease risk and impairs healing. Staying adequately hydrated also supports oral health by promoting saliva production, which helps clean the mouth. Addressing any underlying systemic health issues with your medical doctor can further support gum health and reduce severe symptoms.