Bleeding Gums, Bad Breath
Causes of Gum Disease
The main cause of gum disease is caused by an excessive accumulation of plaque on the tooth surface. Plaque that is not cleaned off regularly via tooth brushing and flossing hardens to form calculus (tartar). Once calculus is formed this cannot be removed with your toothbrush and has to be professionally cleaned off.
Common signs of Gum Disease
- Bad breath (Halitosis)
- Bleeding gums
- Receding gums
- Sensitive teeth
- Loose teeth
Factors that contribute to Gum Disease
- Plaque and calculus
- Smoking
- Medical conditions- diabetes, cardiovascular disease, immune disorder
Bleeding gums and bad breath are both signs that your gums are unhealthy and need attention.
The two most common forms of gum disease are gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is caused by the accumulation of dental plaque on teeth. In the absence of cleaning, this plaque causes inflammation of the gums. This inflammation can cause the gums to be red and swollen and subsequently bleed.
Gingivitis is reversible, provided thatthe plaque is removed and subsequently kept clean.
Whilst gingivitis can be reversible, if left untreated, it can progress to a more severe form of gum disease known as periodontitis.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is a more severe form of gum disease and is an irreversible form of gum disease which affects the tooth’s supporting structures. Periodontitis can initially be painless however, eventually leads to inflammation in the bone structure supporting the teeth in place. When left untreated, periodontitis can lead to significant attachment loss between teeth and the supporting bone structure, which unfortunately can lead to tooth loss.
Treatment of periodontitis/ Periodontal Therapy
We offer periodontal (gum disease) treatments at Admire Dentistry tailored by our OHT to suit you based on their initial gum health assessment of your teeth.
Periodontal Therapy involves removing plaque and calculus from around the tooth and root surface (scaling) to help reduce inflammation and aid in healing. The severity of the gum disease will determine the amount of appointments needed. Scaling may have to be performed in multiple visits to ensure the best outcome for your dental health. While a professional clean is paramount in treating gum disease, tailoring an at-home oral health routine is just as important. Your OHT will be able to make recommendations to help ensure that your oral hygiene routine supports your overall oral health.
While all efforts will be made to help stabilise periodontitis and manage it, we also work closely with specialists to ensure you’re being offered the best comprehensive treatment.
