Gum Disease

Gum disease is a growing area of concern in dentistry, particularly with older adults. The National Survey of adult Oral Health in 2004-2006 looked at all areas of dental disease in Australia and found that 22.9% of adult Australians had moderate to severe gum disease or periodontitis, with more than half Australia adults over the age of 65 suffering from the disease. But unlike dental decay, the dangers of gum disease are rarely discussed. At Dentalspa Geelong, we are proud to have passionate Dental Hygienists who specialise in gum disease and assessment to review gum status of at all preventative care appointments and is part of our preventative dentistry philosophy.

What is gum disease?

Gum disease or periodontitis is an inflammatory disease which results in a loss of bone that surrounds the tooth in it’s socket, creating a space between the tooth and gum known as a periodontal pocket. Dependent upon the amount of bone loss that has occurred, gum disease can lead to tooth mobility and even tooth loss.

Gum disease starts as gingivitis- a term most people are familiar with, meaning inflammation or bleeding of the gums. This is generally caused by poor oral hygiene at home, particularly flossing. Plaque, bacteria and food particles that aren’t removed regularly, causes an inflammatory response by the body. It is when this inflammation on chronic and ongoing, that the bone is affected and is classified as gum disease.

Early signs of gum disease:

There are early signs of gum disease, which everyone should be aware of to recognise and act to reduce the likelihood of gum disease progression.

1. bleeding and tender gums

2. red, puffy and swollen gums

3. Visible plaque and calculus build-up- will appear as a white-brown build-up around the gums

4. Receding gum line- as bone around the tooth is lost, the gum line will shift, exposing the more sensitive, yellow root surface of the teeth.

These signs should not be ignored. If you are noticing any changes with your gums, it is best to see our hygienist to review if any further treatment is needed and review your current oral hygiene routine.

The dangers of gum disease to your health:

While gum disease impacts directly on your dental health, it can also affect your overall health. Recent research has shown a link between gum disease and several health conditions including:

1. heart disease

2. diabetes

3. pregnant women having low birth weight babies and early labours

4. rheumatoid arthritis

5. Respiratory disease

Our gums are like the foundation of a house- if the foundations are faulty, then the house will fail. But there are some things you can do to lower your risk for gum disease:

1. Brush twice daily for 2minutes, fo

cusing along gum lines

2. Floss or use interdental brushes daily is vital- this is the area most missed by regular dental care and most commonly affected by gum disease.

3. Visit your dental hygienist regularly for preventative care appointment where a gum disease screen will be completed. This allows early detection of gum changes and immediate treatment.

4. Quit smoking- smoking can mask a lot of early warning signs of gum disease and reduces oxygen to the gums, increasing the risk of gum disease and limiting success of treatment.

Our dental hygienists are dedicated to a preventative care program including patient education on dental disease including gum disease and demonstration of oral hygiene instructions. If you are concerned about your gums, have had past history of gum disease and treatment or in need of maintenance or haven’t been for your preventative care appointment, please call our office on 03 5223 1555 to make an appointment.

Remember- healthy gums won’t bleed!