Dealing With Gum Disease: The Causes, Symptoms, and Care Options

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common yet serious oral health issue that may lead to tooth loss and affect overall wellbeing. Knowing what to look out for, why it’s happening to you, and how to take proactive steps to maintain healthy gums is crucial for your dental health.

Symptoms and Common Causes

Gum disease is often the result of poor oral hygiene practices, such as inadequate brushing and flossing. Other factors like smoking, genetic predisposition and certain medical conditions can also contribute to its development.

Early signs include redness, swelling, tenderness, bleeding gums and persistent bad breath. These symptoms, especially if ignored, can progress to more severe stages of gum disease and require more extensive care.

The two stages of periodontal disease are

• Gingivitis—in this initial stage, gums are inflamed and may bleed during brushing. With early intervention and proper care, gingivitis can be reversed.
• Periodontitis—when left untreated, gingivitis may progress to periodontitis, a more serious condition where gum tissue and bone are affected, potentially leading to tooth loss.

The Importance of Professional Care

Regular dental cleanings and gum assessments are crucial for detecting gum disease early. Our team of Oral Health Therapists (OHTs) focuses on identifying and treating gum disease, ensuring your gums stay healthy and preventing tooth loss.

We have several options available to address gum problems, including scaling and root planing, a non-surgical procedure that involves deep cleaning below the gum line to remove plaque and tartar and antibacterial strategies. Our dental team may recommend antimicrobial rinses or antibiotics to combat bacteria and surgical solutions for advanced cases where surgical interventions can be effective in restoring gum health.

Our OHTs go beyond cleaning; they have the skills to find early signs of gum disease and then collaborate with our dentists to create personalised treatment plans to keep your gums healthy, your smile radiant, and gum disease away.

3 Tips for Preventing Periodontal Disease

Regular Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove plaque. This helps prevent the buildup of plaque, which can lead to gum disease.

Routine Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams. These visits can help catch and treat periodontal disease early before it becomes severe.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Avoid smoking and maintain a balanced diet that includes plenty of vitamins and minerals. Smoking is a significant risk factor for developing gum disease, while nutritious foods help keep your gums healthy.

Any invasive or surgical procedure may carry risks. Before moving forward, it is recommended that you seek a second opinion from an appropriately licensed medical professional.