Gum health

Bad breath is a prevalent problem, and there are many different causes. Persistent bad breath is usually caused by the smelly gases released by the bacteria that coat your teeth and gums. Smoking is also one of the leading causes of bad breath, along with certain illnesses such as nasal and stomach conditions.
Bits of food caught between the teeth and on the tongue will rot and sometimes cause an unpleasant smell. So correct and regular brushing is essential to keep your breath smelling fresh.
The bacteria on our teeth and gums (plaque) also cause gum disease and dental decay. Seeing your dentist regularly will not only help prevent bad breath but also let the dentist look for and treat these problems.

Gum disease

Gum disease describes swelling, soreness or infection of the tissues supporting the teeth. There are two primary forms of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontal disease.

Gingivitis is reversible but means inflammation of the gums. This is when the gums around the teeth become very red and swollen. Often the swollen gums bleed when they are brushed during cleaning.

Long-standing gingivitis can turn into periodontal disease. There are some types of periodontal disease, and they all affect the tissues supporting the teeth. As the condition worsens, the bone anchoring the teeth in the jaw is lost, making the teeth lose. If this is not treated, the teeth may become mobile and need to be extracted.

All gum diseases are caused by plaque. Plaque is a film of bacteria that forms on the surface of the teeth and gums daily. Many of the bacteria in plaque are completely harmless, but some are the leading cause of gum disease. To prevent and treat gum disease, you must make sure you remove all the plaque from your teeth daily. This is done by brushing and interdental cleaning.

What happens if gum disease is not treated?

Unfortunately, gum disease progresses painlessly so that you do not notice the damage it is doing. However, the bacteria are sometimes more active, making your gums sore. This can lead to gum abscesses, and pus may ooze from around the teeth. Over several years, the bone supporting the teeth can be lost. If the disease is left untreated for a long time, treatment can become more complex and may need to be extracted.

How do I know if I have gum disease?

The first sign is blood on the toothbrush or sinks when you clean your teeth. Your gums may also bleed while eating, leaving a bad taste in your mouth. Your breath may also become unpleasant.

Our dental hygienist will be happy to provide specific advice on:

• Oral disease and prevention of gum disease.
• Nutrition.
• Use of fluoride, anti-bacterial and new dental care materials.
• Tooth Whitening.
• Smoking cessation.

Book in for a Comprehensive Gum Assessment with a Dentist or directly with the Dental Hygienist.