Learn More About Gum Disease
Early Treatment Is the Ideal Way to Manage Gum Disease
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is a serious infection of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It is caused by a buildup of plaque, which subsequently hardens into tartar. Tartar can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, creating pockets where bacteria can grow and cause inflammation of the gums and bones.
Without treatment, gum disease can damage the bone supporting your teeth and the soft tissue around them. As a result, your teeth may become loose and even fall out. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing gum disease from progressing to tooth loss and bone loss.
At Brabham Smiles, we offer several different options for managing gum disease. We provide various services, including scale and clean, and deep cleaning. We also offer antibiotics to help control the infection. No matter what stage of gum disease you are in, we can provide the treatment you need for healthy gums. Our goal is to help our patients get their gum disease under control so they can enjoy healthy smiles for years to come.
Common Causes of Gum Disease
In a nutshell, gum disease is commonly caused by poor oral hygiene. Our mouths are filled with bacteria—plaque forms when these bacteria remain on the teeth for an extended period. Unless plaque is removed by brushing and flossing daily, it can harden into tartar. Tartar coats the teeth and irritates your gums. It allows bacteria to get under your gum line and damages your teeth’s supporting bone structure.
Dental Services that Can Address Gum Disease
Gum Disease Treatment
Various treatments can be used to manage gum disease. Depending on the severity of the gum disease, your dentist may recommend deep cleaning, antibiotics, or periodontal surgery, all of which can help restore your oral health.
Scale and Clean
Plaque and tartar are removed from the teeth during a scale and clean. This can help decrease the chances of gum disease.
Tooth Extractions
Tooth extractions are one way to clean out the infected areas of your mouth and stop gum disease from progressing. In addition, removing the tooth can also help reduce the size of any pockets that have formed around the tooth.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth are at the back of your mouth and can accumulate plaque and tartar which are hard to clean, increasing your risk of gum disease. By removing wisdom teeth before they have a chance to cause problems, you can help to keep your gums healthy and free from disease.
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Frequently Asked Questions About
Gum Disease
What are the stages of gum disease?
- Gingivitis: Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and is characterised by gum inflammation. There may be swelling and bleeding of the gums. Damage can be managed at this early stage of gum disease. This is because the bones and connective tissues that hold the teeth in place have not yet been damaged.
- Periodontitis: During the more severe form of gum disease, called periodontitis, the gums may pull away from the teeth, the bone may be lost, and the teeth may become loose or even fall out. An improved dental hygiene routine and appropriate gum disease treatment can prevent further damage.
- Advanced Periodontitis: This advanced stage of gum disease causes the tissue that supports your teeth to degenerate. You lose your gums, bones, and other soft tissues that support your teeth. You may experience a foul taste in your mouth, persistent bad breath, and pain when chewing. If aggressive intervention fails to save the teeth, they may need to be removed.
What are the signs that I have gum disease?
Gum disease can be detected by the following signs:
- Red, puffy, tender, or swollen gums
- Bleeding gums, especially when you brush or floss your teeth
- Receding gums that cause the teeth to appear longer than normal
- Bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Pus between the teeth and gums
- New spaces forming between your teeth
Can gum disease be managed by just brushing my teeth?
You can manage gingivitis, a mild gum disease, by brushing and flossing your teeth daily. Additionally, your dentist may recommend an antibacterial mouthwash to prevent the growth of bacteria that could damage your teeth and gums.
If your gingivitis has already advanced to periodontitis, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics and deep cleaning. If you have advanced periodontitis, surgery may be necessary to remove the diseased gum tissue or address the bone damage.
How do I prevent gum disease?
There are a few simple steps you can take to reduce your risk of gum disease:
- Practise consistent oral hygiene by brushing at least twice daily and flossing daily.
- Rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and switch to a new one every three to four months.
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings.
What are the dangers of gum disease if not managed properly?
If gum disease is not managed properly, it can lead to the following consequences:
- Chronic gum infections
- Damage to tissues
- Recession of the gums
- Loose teeth
- Deterioration and loss of alveolar bone
- Rapid destruction of bone and gum attachment
- Tooth loss
