One in Three Australian Adults have gum disease causing unsightly gums and bad breath. The early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis and occurs by plaque causing bacteria settling in the gum pockets around the teeth and causing inflammation, the most common warning sign is bleeding gums (although smokers may not experience the warning symptoms due to reduced blood flow in the capillaries).

Gingivitis can be reversed with regular brushing and flossing and 6 monthly appointments with the dentist to ensure that all tartar is removed.

However if gum disease is left untreated long term it can develop to periodontitis. Periodontitis not only effects the gums but also all the surrounding structures of the teeth (alveolar bone and periodontal ligament). Chronic infection and inflammation is present which besides eventually leading to loss of teeth it can effect overall health as well.

Studies have been done that have linked periodontal disease with systemic Illnesses including but not limited to: diabetes, cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, cancer, pre term babies and birth complications, rheumatoid arthritis and much more.

To treat periodontal disease regular visits to the dentist or periodontist are needed to ensure that all the plaque and bacteria have been removed from the teeth and a vigorous cleaning regiment is continued at home. Unfortunately any supporting bone structure loss cannot be reversed but further loss can be prevented and any health implications can be reduced by the lack of bacteria and inflammation in the mouth.

For further information on gum disease please call Passion Dental in Mernda and Doreen on 9717 4200