PRINTED IN TCI WEEKLY NEWS
April 6th, 2013
‘Gum Disease’ is a catch-all description for a range of conditions. In its mildest form it can be simple gum inflammation; in its most severe form- periodontal disease- it can result in loss of gum, bone and ultimately teeth.
Gum disease is caused by bacteria in the mouth. If these bacteria are not regularly removed from the mouth a film called plaque forms on the teeth. Hard deposits called calculus or tartar also forms on the teeth and gives a home for bacteria. Initially if plaque is left on the teeth unchecked the gums will become inflamed. This is gingivitis. The symptoms to watch out for are red and swollen gums that bleed easily. This is a mild form of gum disease and can be reversed with daily brushing, flossing and regular cleanings at your dentist. At this stage there is no loss of bone or tissue. When gingivitis remains untreated it can advance to periodontitis- inflammation around the tooth. With periodontitis, gums pull away from the tooth and pockets form (gaps between the teeth and the gum) that become infected. As your body fights this infection, bacterial toxins and the body’s natural response to infection start to breakdown the bone and connective tissue (periodontal ligament) that hold the teeth in place. If left untreated, this will progress until the tooth becomes loose and has to be removed.
Symptoms of gum disease include-
• Bad breath
• Red or swollen gums
• Bleeding gums
• Pain
• Loose teeth
• Receding gums
• Gum abscess
Treatment depends on the severity of the problem. Routine professional cleaning and removal of calculus deposits above the gum plus regular bushing and flossing at home is essential. If periodontal disease has progressed then dark deposits can be seen under the gum. These must be removed by a dentist or hygienist and the root cleaned to enable the pocket to reduce and heal. Once a patient has had treatment for pocketing caused by periodontal disease it is vital to keep up regular cleaning appointments to ensure it does not reoccur. I often see people who have had periodontal problems every 3 months as even a successfully treated pocket can reform very quickly if neglected. Occasionally it becomes necessary to perform gum surgery to eliminate pocketing, or to visually check he root surface is clean and smooth and even in some cases to attempt to repair bone defects around the tooth with a graft.
In summary, the best way to avoid gum disease is good at-home care, regular flossing and brushing for 2 minutes twice a day and twice yearly visits to your dentist for a check-up and cleaning.
