What is gum disease?

Periodontal disease (known as gum disease) is a serious infection which affects the gum and bone supporting the teeth. If it is left untreated it can lead to premature loss of teeth.

Periodontal disease is usually pain-free (sometimes called ‘the silent disease’) and so you may be unaware of it until your dentist or hygienist checks for it.

It the gum disease is left untreated, the gum starts to come away from the tooth, forming pockets and the bacteria plaque grows down below the gum line. Over time, the bone that supports the teeth is destroyed, the gums shrink and eventually the teeth become wobbly and fall out.

What is the main cause of periodontal disease?

The main cause of the periodontal disease is a bacterial plaque. This is a sticky colourless film that constantly forms on your teeth. You remove it when brushing. Because it’s sticky, it attracts food debris which is used by bacteria as a nutrient. If left long enough the bacteria produces an acid which both weakens your teeth and irritates your gums. This is when you notice that your gums bleed and are sore (swollen, tense, purple or red).

With time the dental plaque, if not removed, hardens and becomes a tartar (like scale in a kettle). It is a hard rough layer on your teeth and under your gums. This attracts more bacteria and more food debris. Apart from irritating your gums it may give you bad breath. You are not able to remove the tartar with a toothbrush, you need professional help from a hygienist or a dentist to remove the tartar.

Professional cleaning does not prevent bacterial plaque to build up again. That is why thorough cleaning of your teeth on a daily basis is vital if you want to improve the condition of your gums. Otherwise the bacterial plaque becomes a tartar and the infection continues.

Signs and symptoms of periodontal disease

• Bleeding gums.
• Swollen and tender gums
• Receding gums.
• Mobile (moving) teeth.
• Gum abscess
• Bad breath.

Is there anything that can increase my chances of having gum problems?

Yes there are several things that make you more likely to have gum problems such as:

• Smoking and using tobacco - smoking is linked with many serious illnesses such as cancer, heart and lung disease. It also makes you more susceptible to periodontal disease. It may start your gum problems and slow down improvements from treatment. At the moment, smoking and using tobacco is believed to be the main risk factor for periodontal disease.
• Genes - If there is a history of gum problems in your family you may be genetically prone to gum disease.
• Diabetes - people with unstable diabetes have a higher risk of developing gum infections which are more difficult to treat.
• Pregnancy and puberty - on both occasions your body changes due to hormones, this affects gums as well. Your gums can become very sensitive and it makes cleaning your teeth more difficult.
• Stress - It may affect your gums in two ways. Firstly, stress weakens your body, making it more difficult to fight off infections. It also disturbs your daily routine, your mind may be focused elsewhere and your oral hygiene routine slips.
• Medications - some drugs, such as oral contraceptives, anti-depressants, epileptic drugs and certain anti-hypertensive medications, can affect your gums. It is very important that you tell your dentist about all the medications you take.
• Also poor nutrition, a weak immune system and clenching or grinding your teeth may worsen the condition of your gums.

Preventative and management measures

• Keep your dentist up to date with your medical history including changes in medication and health.
• Have very good oral hygiene.

Remember to see your hygienist or dentist on a regular basis