Gum Disease

What is Gum Disease?

There are 2 main types of gum disease known as gingivitis and periodontitis (periodontal disease). Essentially, gum disease describes an infection, swelling and soreness of the tissues that support the tooth.

Gingivitis – This is the swelling or inflammation of the gums alone. Usually it is a result of plaque build up around the tooth. It can also be caused by trauma, pregnancy hormones, medication, underlying disease such as HIV, or other viruses such as herpes.
Most types of gingivitis are usually reversible if treated properly.

Periodontitis – When gingivitis isn’t treated effectively it can turn into periodontal disease. There are different types of periodontal disease but all affect the tissues supporting the tooth as well as the underlying bone and fibres. Your teeth are very cleverly anchored into this bone via special fibres. As the disease progresses, your bone breaks down and the special fibres disintegrate making the anchor less effective. This causes teeth to become loose and fall out. Periodontal
Periodontal disease is usually irreversible and you can only stop it from getting worse.
It is a fact that more teeth are lost through periodontal disease than tooth decay.

My parents had gum disease, will I have it as well?

Research suggests that some types of gum disease can be caused by your genetic makeup. If your family members have suffered from gum disease, you may also be affected by it. However, poor oral hygiene will make you even more vulnerable to develop gum disease. This is why it is very important for you look after your teeth and gums even more so.

How will smoking affect my gums and teeth?

Smoking is shown to make gum disease worse. Patients who smoke are more likely to develop plaque which leads to gum disease. Smoking causes a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream so that the infected gums fail to heal.

Does gum disease hurt?

Generally, gum disease is painless! It progresses very cunningly without you ever noticing that you are suffering from it. This is why it is important for dental professionals to check your teeth every 6-12 months for early detection and treatment.

How do I know that I am suffering from gum disease?

Bleeding gums are an early sign. Bad breath or loose teeth are other signs. Your gums may be sore and tender. But these signs and symptoms may not be present all the time so a routine check up is important.

What treatments are available?

Usually, the only treatment that is necessary is a deep clean or a root planning. The latter is the removal of tartar and debris from the root surfaces. Sometimes this is all that is needed to control gum disease and you can save your natural teeth for life!
The dentist may then strongly recommend a maintenance plan which includes a 3 monthly scaling to prevent re-occurrence of the gum disease.

How can I look after my gums at home?

Apart from twice daily brushing and the use of floss and mouthwash, you may benefit from having inter dental brushes which allow you to clean much better in between the teeth. Ask your dentist for further advice.