Periodontal (Gum) Disease

Periodontal disease, or periodontitis represents the number one cause of tooth loss in Australia and may develop without any symptoms, so often your dentist is the first to pick it up.

It involves the destruction of bone surrounding the teeth in response to certain oral bacteria. 15% of the population has periodontitis to some degree whether it is mild moderate or advanced destruction.

What are the signs of periodontal disease?

> Red, swollen, tender, painful or bleeding gums
> Receded gums and exposed root surfaces
>Persistent bad breath
>Loose teeth that may drift to form gaps between the teeth. In severe cases tooth loss may result.

What are the risk factors for periodontitis?

> Smoking
> Family history
> Poorly controlled diabetes
> Stress
> Poor oral hygiene

How is it treated?

Previous bone loss as a result of this disease can be reversed in some cases but in many circumstances it cannot, so regular checkups by your dentist can detect the early onset of the disease and prevent it from progressing further.

Professional treatment involves regular (usually 3 monthly) thorough cleaning and elimination of the causative bacteria underneath the gum level.

Behavioral and hygiene modifications are the most important aspect of long term maintenance of the gum condition. Patients are encouraged to quit smoking and ensure their diabetes is well controlled.