Overview
Gum disease is a chronic
bacterial infection of the gums
and the bone supporting the
teeth. It can affect one tooth or
several teeth. If left untreated,
it may lead to the loss of tooth
or teeth.
The main cause of gum disease is
bacterial plaque. It is a sticky film,
made up of bacterial and salivary
protein, that accumulates on the
surface of the teeth. The plaque causes
‘gingivitis’ which is an inflammation of
the gums. The gums become red and puffy, and bleed easily. Gingivitis is a
mild form of gum disease which is
reversible.
Left untreated, it can progress to a
more advanced stage of gum disease
called periodontitis. The gums start
to separate from the teeth, allowing
bacteria to form periodontal (gum)
pockets which will destroy the
underlying supporting structures
(bone and connective tissue). The
teeth may eventually become loose
and need to be removed. The disease
can occur at any age.
You may be more prone to gum
disease if you have any of these risk
factors:
- Poorly controlled diabetes. This
means that you are at a higher risk
of developing infections, including
periodontal disease.
- A heavy smoker. Smoking is
the most significant risk factor
associated with the development
of periodontitis.
- Undergoing hormonal changes
such as puberty or pregnancy
in females.
- Taking certain medications that
may cause your gums to swell or
overgrow (certain anti-hypertensive
and immuno-suppressant drugs).
- A lower immunity against
infection due to HIV infection
or if you are undergoing cancer
treatments.
- Poor nutrition.
- Genetic susceptibility to
periodontal disease.
Treatment
The type of treatment and number
of visits will vary depending on the
extent of the disease. Regardless of
the treatment, it is important that you
maintain good oral hygiene. Smokers
are strongly advised to quit smoking
to improve treatment outcome.
Initial Periodontal Treatment
Plaque that is allowed to accumulate
on the teeth over time will harden to
form calculus (tartar). Calculus being
rough will trap more plaque. It can
only be removed by professional
cleaning by a dentist or dental
hygienist.
Removing the bacterial plaque and
calculus is necessary to allow the gums
to heal.
- Scaling - Removing the calculus
from above and below the gum line.
- Polishing - Removing plaque and
stains from the root surface.
- Root Planing - Using special
instruments to remove tough
calculus and bacterial deposits
along the root surfaces, usually
under local anaesthesia.
As your gums heal, they normally
shrink, and you may notice gaps
appearing between your teeth. Your
teeth may also experience increased
sensitivity to cold food or drinks. If this
occurs, your dentist can recommend
toothpaste or gels/rinses for sensitive
teeth.
Surgical Treatment
Gum Surgery
If deep periodontal (gum) pockets and
gum inflammation persist following
initial periodontal treatment, this
could be due to calculus in difficultto-
reach areas. Your periodontist may
then decide to perform surgery to gain
access to clean the teeth better and to
further reduce the pockets. In certain
conditions, your periodontist might
use grafting materials to promote
regeneration of destroyed bone and
gum tissues.
Prevention
Plaque forms within hours after it
has been removed from your teeth.
Effective removal of plaque can help to
prevent gum disease. These are some
preventive steps:
- Brush your teeth at least twice
daily. Brushing after every meal is
also helpful.
- Brush half an hour after a meal.
If you have consumed acidic food
or drinks, this helps to reduce
tooth sensitivity.
- Floss everyday.
- Use an interdental brush on teeth
with a larger gap.
- Visit the dentist routinely,
twice a year for a check-up and
professional cleaning.
- Do not use tobacco products.
Remember, your gums and the
underlying bone support all your teeth
in place and a beautiful smile starts
with healthy gums!
