What is gum disease?

And why you must treat it.

What is gum disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common condition that affects the tissues surrounding your teeth. It ranges from simple gum inflammation to severe disease that can result in major damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth.

Dangers of Gum Disease

Gum disease, if untreated, poses serious risks to both oral and overall health.

Oral Health Risks

  • Tooth Loss: Advanced gum disease can lead to the destruction of bone and tissue, causing tooth loss.

  • Infections: Untreated infections can cause painful abscesses requiring surgical intervention.

  • Receding Gums: Leads to increased sensitivity and higher risk of decay.

Systemic Health Risks

  • Heart Disease: Gum bacteria can enter the bloodstream, contributing to cardiovascular issues.

  • Diabetes: The risk of developing periodontitis may be greater in patients with diabetes who have a poor glycaemic control, than that in patients with controlled diabetes.

  • Pregnancy Complications: Higher risk of preterm birth and low birth weight.

  • Stroke: Patients suffering from periodontal disease are 3 to 4 times more likely to have a stroke.

Aesthetic and Functional Issues

  • Appearance: Receding gums and tooth loss affect your smile and confidence.

  • Eating Difficulty: Loose teeth and sore gums can make chewing painful, affecting diet.

Financial Costs

  • Expensive Treatments: Advanced gum disease requires more costly and complex treatments.

Causes

Gum disease is primarily caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. If not removed, plaque can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional.

Symptoms

  • Red, swollen, or tender gums

  • Bleeding while brushing or flossing

  • Receding gums

  • Persistent bad breath

  • Loose or shifting teeth

Stages of Gum Disease

  1. Gingivitis: The mildest form of gum disease, causing red, swollen gums that may bleed easily. It is reversible with good oral hygiene and professional treatment.

  2. Periodontitis: If left untreated, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis. This stage involves the gums pulling away from the teeth and forming pockets that become infected. The bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place can be destroyed.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing gum disease involves a comprehensive dental examination, including:

  • Periodontal check-up

  • Microbiological Analysis

  • Pocket charting

  • Digital x-rays

  • Discussion of lifestyle factors

Treatment

Effective treatment depends on the severity of the disease. Options include:

  • Professional cleaning: Removal of plaque and tartar.

  • Scaling and root planing: Deep cleaning below the gumline.

  • Advanced treatments: Such as our Duo-Lase™ laser therapy, which targets bacteria and stimulates healing.