Gum Disease

Do you know that good oral health means more than just looking after your teeth? Beside your teeth, your gums need to be healthy too. A beautiful smile starts with healthy gums. Gum disease is the largest cause of tooth loss in adults. Studies shown that gum inflammation may be linked to other chronic health conditions.

What is Gum Disease?

The main culprit of gum or periodontal disease is bacterial plaque. Overtime plaque that is not removed can harden and form tartar which can only be removed with professional cleaning by a dentist. The longer plaque and tartar remain on teeth, the more harmful they become resulting in gum disease. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that occurs when bacterial plaque causes gum inflammation. Gums become red, puffy and bleed easily. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to a more severe gum disease called periodontist. This occurs when the gum pull away from the teeth and are filled with plaque becoming infected. The teeth may become loose due to bone loss and may have to be removed.

Treating Gum Disease

Gingivitis can be reversed. With regular visits, your dentist can pick up signs of disease and prescribe a good hygiene programme for you to follow at home, complemented by professional scaling. If required you may be referred to a periodontist with specialised training in treating gum disease. Treatment for periodontist may include gum surgery to remove deep-seated plaque and tartar.