Gum Disease - What is it and How to Prevent it?

Healthy teeth and gums play an important part in your quality of life – can help you smile, to speak and eat, to socialise and to feel good about yourself.

Having healthy teeth and gums may also reduce your risk of diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and respiratory conditions. 

There are several factors that contribute to having healthy teeth and gums. These include what you eat and drink, the quality of the toothbrush and toothpaste you use, how often you brush your teeth and for how long, and if you floss regularly.

If you fail to maintain health teeth and gums, then you risk gum disease.

Brushing your teeth alone, is not enough to prevent gum disease.

74% of Australians rarely or never floss which allows plaque to build up.

29% of Australians aged 15 and above present with symptoms of moderate to severe gum disease.

DENTAL DISEASE

Gum disease and dental decay are the 2 major forms of dental disease. The 3^rd form of dental disease in oral cancer.

Dental decay and gum disease are different conditions but share the same cause. Plus, if left unchecked and untreated, dental decay can and often does lead to gum disease.

Dental Decay 

Dental decay is chronic across all ages. Bacteria live in the mouth and form dental plaque on the teeth and along the gum line. Eating sweet foods and drinks feeds the bacteria, producing acid in the mouth increasing the risk of dental decay.

Gum Disease

Gum disease occurs when the tissue that surrounds and supports your teeth becomes inflamed. It is most- often caused by a build-up of plaque on the teeth and gums. Severe gum disease can lead to the loss of tissues that hold your teeth in place. Gum disease is also linked with a range of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.

BLEEDING – THE FIRST SIGN OF TROUBLE

Bleeding is usually a sign that something is wrong.

Even if you brush and floss regularly, bleeding is not normal. It’s a sign that your gums are inflamed. If ignored, you stand a real risk of developing a serious form of gum disease.

THERE ARE TWO MAIN STAGES OF GUM DISEASE

1.      Gingivitis 

This early form of gum disease occurs when dental plaque, the bacterial film that covers the surfaces of your mouth, builds up on your teeth, particularly where the gum and tooth meet. When this happens, your gums may appear red, swollen and feel extra sensitive, and bleed easily. Fortunately, gingivitis does not lead to loss of the bone and tissue that hold your teeth in place and can be reversed with twice daily brushing and flossing, as well as regular professional cleaning by your dentist or dental hygienist.

2.     Periodontitis 

Ignoring the bleeding caused by gingivitis could lead to a more serious form of gum disease called periodontitis. The reason this disease is so serious is that it causes your gums to pull away from your teeth, forming spaces (known as “pockets”) that can easily become infected. Naturally, your body’s immune system fights the infection, but this response and the bacterial toxins generated by the infection combine to create a toxic brew that breaks down the bone and tissue that hold your teeth in place and, in severe cases, can lead to their removal.

While periodontitis can be managed effectively (particularly if caught early), it can cause considerable damage and treating it will require your dentist’s ongoing assistance. Your dentist may also decide to refer you to a gum specialist (Periodontist), who specialises in diseases of this nature.

THE CAUSES OF GUM DISEASE

In addition to plaque, which is largely responsible for the development of gum disease, the health of your gums can also be affected by:

• Smoking and tobacco use

• Genetic predisposition

• Systemic diseases like diabetes and arthritis

• Stress and poor nutrition.

• Hormonal fluctuations such as those experienced during puberty, pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause.

TEETH BRUSHING

Brushing your teeth is critically import for preventing gum disease. But brushing your teeth alone, is not enough to prevent gum disease.

• Brushing your teeth, gums, and tongue twice a day removes the plaque and reduces bacteria and acid levels in your mouth.

• Fluoride in toothpaste helps strengthen your teeth.

• Regular flossing helps to remove plaque between teeth.

• Using a quality mouthwash can help kill and remove harmful bacteria.

SIGNS YOUR GUMS ARE IN TROUBLE

Common indications that your gums are in trouble include:

• Red, swollen, and tender gums

• Visible tartar deposits between the teeth and gums

• Bad breath

• Gums that have pulled away from the teeth, exposing the roots

• Permanent teeth that are loose or shifting away from each other

• Changes in the way your teeth come together when you bite or in the fit of your dentures and bridge.