Disease Gum

Periodontal or Gum Disease

Periodontal disease is the inflammation and infection of the gums. It is caused by plaque, a thick and sticky film of bacteria that builds up on the teeth. If untreated, this inflammation can, over time, cause deep pockets between the teeth and gums and a loss of bone around teeth. This is known as periodontal disease or gum disease.

Signs of Gum Disease

• red, swollen, tender, painful or bleeding gums
• gums that have shrunk from the teeth
• persistent bad breath
• a bad taste in the mouth
• abscesses between teeth and gums
• a denture no longer fits properly
• loose teeth, teeth drifting apart and gaps appearing between teeth

Gingivitis is an irritation of the gums. It is usually caused by bacterial plaque that accumulates in the small gaps between the gums and the teeth and by calculus (tartar) that forms on the teeth. These accumulations may be tiny, even microscopic, but the bacteria in them produce foreign chemicals and toxins that cause inflammation of the gums around the teeth.

Plaque and calculus are caused by poor oral hygiene. Bacteria in plaque and calculus can damage the gums and cause gingivitis. This can usually be treated by removing the plaque and calculus, then daily brushing and flossing.

Advanced stage of gum disease

When gum disease is left untreated for some time it can result in a quite serious condition called Periodontitis. Periodontitis can cause severe damage to teeth, gums and bone. Gums recede from the teeth resulting in the teeth becoming loose. Teeth may even fall out or require extraction.

Periodontal treatment can slow down gum disease and even stop its progression. You can help prevent gum disease by brushing and flossing daily and having 6 monthly dental check-ups.

Gentle Dental Care employs specially trained dental hygienists to attend to your gum disease. Contact us for more information.