Gum & Periodontal Disease

This is the chronic inflammation and infection of the gums and the surrounding tissues. Plaque is full of bacteria and sticks to the tooth surface and this is the primary cause of gum disease. If plaque is not removed daily, it will become hard in the form of calculus which hosts all this harmful bacteria. The bacteria release toxins which break down the fibres which attaches the gum tightly to the tooth surface. If this continues long-term, it could also break down the bone supporting the teeth which will then cause the teeth to loosen resulting in natural loss or loss due to extraction of the periodontal compromised teeth. Therefore, periodontal disease is the result of untreated gingivitis and it is recognized with red, swollen and inflamed gums which bleed when the teeth are brushed. There are contributing factors to periodontal disease e.g.: some cancers (i.e. Leukaemia), HIV/AIDS, diabetes, smoking, poor oral hygiene, diet, genetic compilation (“runs in the family”) of which the last one is the most common reason for tooth loss in adults. To help treat periodontal disease your dentist may prescribe you antibiotics, give you advice on antibacterial mouth rinses and would also refer you to see the hygienist for regular 3 monthly cleanings.

Some patients who do not respond well to the 3 monthly cleanings by the hygienist or where periodontal disease has progressed, your dentist might find it necessary to refer you to a periodontal specialist for more invasive treatment.

The best you can do to prevent periodontal disease is to keep your oral health in its best possible condition and act fast when minor oral infections occur and see your hygienist as often as recommended by your dentist.