Gum Disease
Gum Disease: Restoring smiles, one procedure at a time.
Find out how DDII can help you with your options for treating gum disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common oral health condition that affects the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth, including the gums, ligaments, and bones. It often starts as gingivitis, which is the inflammation of the gums caused by the accumulation of plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—on the teeth and along the gumline.
Gingivitis is typically characterized by symptoms such as redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums, especially during brushing and flossing. However, at this stage, the damage is usually reversible with proper oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings.
If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to a more severe form of gum disease called periodontitis. In periodontitis, the inflammation extends deeper into the supporting structures of the teeth, leading to the breakdown of the gum tissue and the bone that holds the teeth in place. This can result in pockets forming between the teeth and gums, where more bacteria can accumulate, causing infection and further damage.
Periodontitis can lead to various complications, including gum recession, tooth mobility, tooth loss, and even systemic health issues like cardiovascular disease and diabetes. It’s important to note that periodontal disease can be painless in its early stages, which is why regular dental check-ups are crucial for early detection and prevention.
Gum Disease
Gum Disease: Restoring smiles, one procedure at a time.
Find out how Gosford Dental Excellence can help you with your options for treating gum disease.
Despite being easily preventable at Gosford Dental Excellence, gum disease is a frustratingly common issue for many patients.
Gingivitis is often brought on by poor dental hygiene, namely the inability to remove the soft, sticky, white film known as plaque. If you discover that you have it, don’t be alarmed; you are not alone. 85% of us will need gum disease treatment at some point in our lives.
Effects of Gum Disease
Tarnished gums
In the mirror, look at the colour of your gums to determine how well your teeth are doing. Gums in excellent health have a pinkish appearance. Gums that have gum disease may have a rich pink or red tint.
Sensitive teeth cause difficulty chewing
Gum disease often manifests as sensitivity to hot and cold meals. Your teeth’s roots are not protected by enamel, so the dentin below is very sensitive to changes in temperature and pressure.
Swollen or bleeding gums
Your gums may already have gingivitis or periodontitis if they often swell, ache, and become inflamed for no apparent cause. Gum disease may also be indicated by blood left behind in the spit after brushing or on the toothbrush.
Mouth Smell
A lingering bad taste or smell may be caused by periodontal bacteria. If the bad taste lingers all day after cleaning your teeth, it can be an indication of periodontal disease.
Gum recession and tooth loss
Near the gum line, bacteria may cause tissue death. The teeth of the afflicted individual will look “longer,” and the freshly exposed dental roots may become discoloured. Your teeth may tingle if you have gum disease.
Oral pimples or ulcers
Pus is a sign of serious gum disease and the body’s reaction to infections. If pus is developing, an abscess can also be present.
If you are displaying these signs, you need to see a doctor right once.
How to Avoid Gum Disease
- Eat consistently and healthfully
- Avoid greasy and sugary meals
- Brush your teeth after every meal, please
- Avoid smoking
- Consume plenty of water, preferably fluoridated water
Effects of Gum Disease
Tarnished gums
In the mirror, look at the colour of your gums to determine how well your teeth are doing. Gums in excellent health have a pinkish appearance. Gums that have gum disease may have a rich pink or red tint.
Sensitive teeth cause difficulty chewing
Gum disease often manifests as sensitivity to hot and cold meals. Your teeth’s roots are not protected by enamel, so the dentin below is very sensitive to changes in temperature and pressure.
Swollen or bleeding gums
Your gums may already have gingivitis or periodontitis if they often swell, ache, and become inflamed for no apparent cause. Gum disease may also be indicated by blood left behind in the spit after brushing or on the toothbrush.
Mouth Smell
A lingering bad taste or smell may be caused by periodontal bacteria. If the bad taste lingers all day after cleaning your teeth, it can be an indication of periodontal disease.
Gum recession and tooth loss
Near the gum line, bacteria may cause tissue death. The teeth of the afflicted individual will look “longer,” and the freshly exposed dental roots may become discoloured. Your teeth may tingle if you have gum disease.
Oral pimples or ulcers
Pus is a sign of serious gum disease and the body’s reaction to infections. If pus is developing, an abscess can also be present.
If you are displaying these signs, you need to see a doctor right once.
How to Avoid Gum Disease
- Eat consistently and healthfully
- Avoid greasy and sugary meals
- Brush your teeth after every meal, please
- Avoid smoking
- Consume plenty of water, preferably fluoridated water