Avoiding And Repairing Gum Disease
There is a famous saying that “a stitch in time saves nine.” And when it comes to gum disease, that statement is more than true. Treating gum disease before it becomes serious can literally save you stitches later.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is inflammation caused by bacterial growth in the mouth around the tooth and along the gum line. Unfortunately, this preventable disease can cause loss of teeth if not treated.
Worse, at least 20% of Australians have at least moderate gum disease, according to the Australian Department of Health in a 2012 study.
The good news? If identified and treated early, gum disease is reversible, and even in advanced cases your Kallangur dentist can help!
What Are The Four Stages Of Gum Disease?
Gum disease begins with gingivitis and, untreated, eventually becomes advanced periodontitis.
- Gingivitis is the initial stage of gum disease, and its symptoms include swollen or red gums that may bleed when brushed.
- In early periodontitis, minor loss of teeth-supporting bone takes place. Symptoms can be quite subtle.
- In moderate periodontitis, more bone and gum tissue is destroyed and teeth may become loose within the jaw.
- Advanced periodontitis is the most severe stage of the disease. Teeth can become loose and sometimes even come out of the jaw.
While gingivitis is treatable, the effects of periodontitis are often not reversible and should be addressed with the help of a dental professional.
Causes of Gum Disease
The causes of gum disease are varied.
Poor Oral Health Care – Gingivitis occurs when plaque is allowed to accumulate on the teeth. An inconsistent or poor oral care routine can lead to plaque buildup on the teeth.
Plaque & Tartar – Gingivitis occurs when bacteria develops into a sticky film called plaque. If plaque is not removed each day it will eventually harden and become hard, crusty, and porous tartar. Tartar that sticks below the gum line can only be removed by a dentist or hygienist.
Smoking – Smoking changes gum tissue cells and makes your mouth much more vulnerable to infection. Smoking also weakens your gums’ defense and makes it much more difficult for them to recover. As usual, our advice is quit if you can!
General Health Issues – Shifting hormones (e.g. pregnancy) can make gums more susceptible to gum disease. Other factors can also lead to gum disease, including stress, poor nutrition, some illnesses, and family history.
Treating Gum Disease
First, maintain good daily oral hygiene – brushing twice a day and flossing between the teeth once a day. This is your daily defense against plaque. And see your dentist regularly – gingivitis is reversible if caught early.
Periodontitis, on the other hand, requires dental treatment. Treatments range from deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar to surgery reshaping your gum, connective tissues, and bone in the most serious cases.
To avoid the most serious case, keep good dental hygiene at home, and visit Prevent Dental Suite in Kallangur at least twice a year. We’ll keep your gums, teeth, mouth, and even health, in the highest possible condition!
Comprehensive Treatment for Gum Disease at Prevent Dental Suite
Prevent Dental Suite is dedicated to going above and beyond to improve your dental care and oral health. We offer comprehensive gum disease treatment to repair and restore the health of your gums. We believe that healthy gums lead to healthy, stronger teeth.
We are a family friendly dentists that serve patients of every age!
Our Special Offers
At Prevent Dental Suite, our goal is to make quality dental care affordable. We encourage you to take advantage of our latest offers. To find out more, visit our special offers page today or call us on +61 7 3886 2428 !
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