Gum Disease Treatment
Gum Disease Treatment
Your smile is more than just an aesthetic; it's a gateway to a healthier future. A seemingly harmless smile can conceal a serious health issue like gum disease, which can impact your oral health. Gum disease progresses slowly and painlessly, often going unnoticed until significant damage has occurred.
This deceptive disease targets the gums, ligaments, and teeth supporting bone. If left untreated, the inflammation can worsen, leading to the formation of pockets between the teeth and gums. These pockets can become infected, damaging the ligaments and bones that support the teeth. Consequently, teeth may loosen and eventually fall out.
Gum disease not only affects your oral health but can also have serious implications for your overall well-being. In addition to oral health problems such as bad breath, receding gums, and tooth loss, it has been linked to serious systemic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
Oral hygiene practices such as regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups can significantly reduce your risk of developing gum disease and its associated complications.
Consult your Campbelltown dentist to prevent further damage and improve oral health if you suspect gum disease.
What is Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common condition that affects the gums and the bones that support your teeth.
It's caused by a buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar, which only a dentist or dental hygienist can remove.
Gingivitis and periodontitis are the two stages of gum disease. It begins with gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums. If gingivitis isn't treated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss.
What Causes Gum Disease?
The leading cause of gum disease is plaque, a sticky layer of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. Plaque forms when bacteria in the mouth interact with sugars and starches from food. Despite diligent oral hygiene efforts, plaque can quickly reform due to the constant activity of bacteria in the mouth. Plaque can harden into tartar beneath the gum line if left on teeth, making it difficult to remove due to its stubborn nature.
Gum Disease Progression
Without timely intervention, plaque build-up worsens over time and leads to periodontitis. Despite daily brushing and flossing, plaque can reappear due to ongoing bacterial production, saliva, and frequent eating and drinking. Plaque can harden into tartar beneath the gum line if left on teeth making it difficult to remove due to its stubborn nature.
Gum Disease | From Gingivitis to Periodontitis
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, characterised by inflammation of the gum tissues. It typically arises from plaque buildup on and around the teeth.
Symptoms of Gingivitis:
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Red, swollen, and tender gums: Gums may appear bright red or purplish-red and feel puffy or spongy.
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Bleeding gums: Bleeding during brushing or flossing is a common symptom of gingivitis.
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Bad breath: Bacteria in the plaque can cause bad breath (halitosis).
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Receding gums: In some cases, the gums may begin to recede, exposing more of the tooth root.
Gingivitis is often reversible with diligent oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings.
Act now to safeguard your oral health. Early detection and treatment of gum disease can prevent serious complications contact your Campbelltown dentist today.
Periodontitis
Gingivitis progresses to periodontitis if left untreated as it increases in these stages:
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Early Periodontitis: Gums separate from teeth and create pockets susceptible to infection.
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Moderate Periodontitis: The damage extends to the supporting ligaments and bones, causing teeth to loosen and increasing the likelihood of tooth loss.
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Advanced Periodontitis: Severe damage to teeth and bones can lead to tooth loss and possible complications.
Symptoms of Periodontitis:
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Receding gums
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Deep pockets between teeth and gums
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Persistent bad breath
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Pus between teeth and gums
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Loose teeth
Ongoing inflammation strains the immune system and contributes to other health issues. Professional treatment, cleaning, antibiotics, and surgery (in severe cases) can improve the condition.
Gum Disease Risk Factors
Several factors can raise your risk of developing gum disease:
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Age
Gum disease is more common in older people.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Irregular brushing and flossing increases the risk of gum disease.
Tobacco Use
Smoking and tobacco increases the risk of gum disease.
Genetics
Genetic predisposition may make some individuals more susceptible.
Diabetes
Uncontrolled diabetes increases the risk of gum disease.
Medications
Some medications affect oral health, and increase the risk.
Stress
Chronic stress compromises the immune system, lowering the body’s defences against infections like gum disease.
Potential Complications from Gum Disease
If left untreated, gum disease can lead to various complications, including oral and systemic health issues
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Advanced gum disease can cause tooth erosion or loss as it weakens the supporting ligaments and bone structure.
Pus may accumulate between the teeth and gums, causing pain and swelling.
Progressive gum disease causes receding gums that expose tooth roots and make them vulnerable to decay.
Emerging evidence indicates a link between gum disease and systemic conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
Brush Twice Daily
Brushing Twice Daily with fluoride toothpaste.
Floss Regularly
Floss daily after toothbrush.
Quit Smoking
Quit smoking and tobacco.
Maintain a Balanced Diet
Include a variety of fruits and vegetables in a balanced diet.
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Seeking Timely Intervention
If you notice any of the following, schedule a consultation with our Campbelltown dentist:
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Bleeding gums
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Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth
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Receding gums
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Loose teeth
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Red, swollen, or tender gums
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Changes in your bite
Early detection and treatment of gum disease in Campbelltown are crucial for maintaining oral health and preventing serious complications.
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Gum Disease Treatment in Campbelltown
Gum disease requires a customised treatment approach based on the stage of disease, treatment history, and overall health. At Bradbury Dental Surgery, your Campbelltown dentist, we offer a variety of options ranging from non-surgical interventions to surgical procedures. Common treatments include professional cleaning, scaling and root planing, and gum surgery.
We use advanced techniques such as EMS airflow and guided biofilm therapy for all stages of gum disease. We prioritise your health needs for advanced periodontitis and refer you to a periodontist for the most effective treatment.
Bradbury Dental Surgery, your trusted dentist in Campbelltown, has now expanded its services to Appin Dental Surgery.