Periodontal Disease – Understanding & Preventing Gum Disease

Your oral health is an essential part of your overall well-being, and that includes having healthy teeth and gums. While most people focus on preventing cavities, gum health is just as important. Periodontal disease (gum disease) is a serious condition that can lead to tooth loss, pain, and long-term oral health complications if left untreated.

At Avonhead Dental, we are committed to helping you prevent, manage, and treat gum disease so you can keep your natural teeth for life.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Your teeth are held in place by periodontal tissues, which include:
✔ The gingivae (gum tissues)
✔ The periodontal ligament, a network of fibres that connects the tooth to the jawbone
✔ The supporting bone that anchors the teeth

When plaque and bacteria accumulate along the gumline, they can cause inflammation and infection, leading to gum disease. Over time, this can destroy the fibres and bone supporting the teeth, causing gum recession, loose teeth, and eventually, tooth loss.


Signs & Symptoms of Gum Disease

Gum disease is often painless in its early stages, making it easy to overlook. Some warning signs to watch for include:

⚠ Red, swollen, or tender gums
⚠ Bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing
⚠ Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
⚠ Receding gums or teeth appearing longer than usual
⚠ Loose teeth or a change in the way your teeth fit together
⚠ Pus or discharge between the gums and teeth

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, early treatment is crucial to prevent further damage.

Stages of Gum Disease

🔹 Gingivitis (Early Stage)

  • A mild, reversible form of gum disease.
  • Caused by plaque buildup, leading to gum inflammation and bleeding.
  • Can be treated with improved oral hygiene and professional cleaning.

🔹 Periodontitis (Advanced Stage)

  • Occurs when untreated gingivitis progresses, leading to bone loss and gum recession.
  • Can result in loose teeth, deep gum pockets, and permanent damage.
  • Requires specialised treatment to halt progression.

Unfortunately, bone lost due to periodontitis cannot be regenerated, so early intervention is key to preventing irreversible damage.


What Causes Periodontal Disease?

Gum disease is primarily caused by plaque, but other factors can increase your risk, including:

✔ Poor oral hygiene – Not brushing and flossing properly allows plaque to harden into tartar (calculus), which harbours bacteria.
✔ Smoking – A major risk factor that reduces blood flow to the gums, making infections worse.
✔ Poorly controlled diabetes – Can impair gum healing and increase infection risk.
✔ Genetics – Some people are more prone to gum disease due to family history.
✔ Hormonal changes – Pregnancy, menopause, or hormonal fluctuations can make gums more sensitive to bacteria.

How to Prevent Gum Disease

✅ Brush & Floss Properly – Brush twice daily for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove plaque.
✅ Use Interdental Brushes – Cleaning between your teeth is just as important as brushing.
✅ Quit Smoking – Tobacco increases gum disease risk and slows healing.
✅ Maintain Good Overall Health – A balanced diet and regular exercise support gum health.
✅ Visit Your Dentist Regularly – Professional cleanings remove tartar and bacteria that brushing alone cannot.

If you have a history of gum problems, you may need more frequent hygienist visits to keep your gums healthy.


How We Treat Gum Disease

At Avonhead Dental, our gum disease treatments include:

🔹 Professional Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing)
✔ Removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline.
✔ Helps eliminate infection and inflammation.

🔹 Deep Cleaning & Gum Therapy
✔ Treats advanced cases by cleaning deep gum pockets.
✔ Can help slow or stop the disease from progressing.

🔹 Periodontal Surgery (For Severe Cases)
✔ In some cases, gum grafting or minor surgery may be needed to restore gum health.
✔ We may refer you to a specialist (periodontist) for advanced treatment.

Early treatment is the best way to prevent tooth loss, so if you suspect gum disease, book a consultation as soon as possible.


Why Treating Gum Disease Matters

⚠ Gum disease is linked to serious health conditions, including:
🔹 Heart disease – Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream.
🔹 Diabetes complications – Periodontal disease can worsen blood sugar control.
🔹 Respiratory infections – Bacteria from the mouth can affect lung health.

By treating gum disease early, you protect your teeth and overall health.


Book a Gum Health Check Today

If you’re experiencing gum problems or want to prevent periodontal disease, Avonhead Dental is here to help. We offer comprehensive gum health assessments and expert care to keep your smile strong for years to come.

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