Looking after your gum health

Periodontics is the field of dentistry that specialises in the prevention and treatment of diseases of the tooth-supporting tissues. The warning signs for gingivitis and periodontitis might appear roughly the same, certainly when checking at home, yet the treatment and damage done is very different. Only a dental professional can check your bone levels by looking at your x-rays. If diagnosed with gum disease, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist or hygienist for treatment. Periodontists are dental practitioners who specialise in the prevention and treatment of diseases of the tooth-supporting tissues, the periodontium. You don’t need a referral to see our periodontist or team of hygienists, if you have a history of gum disease in your family you can see them directly for a consultation.

The most obvious signs of periodontal disease are:

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    Bleeding gums

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    Bad breath

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    Bad taste

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    Red or swollen gums

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    Loose teeth

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    Receding gums

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What is gum disease?

Gum disease (periodontitis) is an inflammatory disease. Inflammation is part of the body’s natural defence mechanism and occurs in your gums in response to a build-up of plaque (bacteria) on the teeth. In some people, this natural inflammatory process is too severe or poorly controlled and the inflammation actually damages the supporting structures of the teeth, namely the gums and supporting bone.
Depending on the severity of the condition, periodontal disease can be treated successfully by removing all plaque and calculus deposits. Similar to diabetes, there is no cure, but by stabilising the disease, we can prevent further damage and help you to maintain the health of your teeth and gums.

Do I have gum disease?

Approximately 10% of the population are severely affected by periodontal disease and by the age of 60 years old around 80% of people will display some bone loss, albeit mild. Gum disease is usually a slow progressing disease and most people are not aware that they have it until diagnosed by a dental professional.

There appears to be some genetic link with periodontal disease, with trends running in families. If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, then potentially your siblings and children may be at an increased risk of having the same problem. Ideally they should all be screened and monitored for potential problems by their general dentist.

Frequently asked questions

  • Can you just give me antibiotics?

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    This is not an infection; it is the body’s reaction to removable plaque. When the plaque is physically removed by you and by us, the inflammation will resolve, and the disease will stabilise without the need for antibiotics. Gum disease is never treated with antibiotics.

  • What if I don't have treatment?

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    If the bone loss around the teeth is not controlled then teeth may become loose, gums shrink and in some cases teeth may become infected and may need to be extracted.

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Get started with a gum disease assessment today


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