Our experienced dentists give a thorough assessment of your gums during routine check-ups. If we find any signs of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, we’ll recommend the treatment appropriate to the type of problems you’re experiencing.
Having regular check-ups at Crown Dental Group allow us to detect the presence of gum disease, which has been linked to chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.
Symptoms of gum disease
It occurs in two stages: gingivitis, which is mild, and periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease.
Symptoms of Gingivitis
It’s important to catch onto the early signs to help stop it turning into periodontitis, which can easily cause permanent damage or tooth loss.
- Persistent bad breath
- Red and swollen gums
- Gums bleed while brushing or flossing
- Chewing is painful
- Teeth are loosening
- Teeth are becoming more sensitive
- Gums are receding
- Dentures do not fit correctly
Symptoms of Periodontitis
When gum disease is left to turn into periodontitis, you must seek dental help to minimise permanent damage.
- Constant bad breath and taste
- Bleeding gums
- Teeth are loose and shifting
- Red, swollen and inflamed gums
- Sensitive teeth
- Receding gumline (eventually will expose the root)
- Painful to chew and bite
- Tooth loss
These are all signs of gum disease in both early and advanced stages. It’s a common problem caused by plaque build-up on the teeth and can be dangerous to your oral health. So, the key to prevention is maintaining a healthy smile.
Advanced gum disease complications
Please know that failing to receive dental help and letting periodontitis damage your oral health can lead to many serious consequences.
Periodontitis can lead to loss of teeth, as the condition destroys bone and soft tissue over time, which support and hold your teeth in place.
It also allows bad bacteria to thrive inside your mouth, which can cause many infections and endanger your overall health and wellbeing.
How to treat and prevent gum disease
In early stages, you can prevent gum disease by simply improving your oral hygiene. This can be done by brushing twice a day, flossing and rinsing your mouth out with an antibacterial mouthwash.
However, during later stages once your gum disease has already turned into periodontitis, the advanced version of gum disease; you must seek dental intervention. You will require dental treatment, which could include root canal treatment, scaling and antibiotics or a form of surgical treatment.
No matter which stage you’re in, we can develop a treatment plan to help you recover your oral health.
Periodontal treatment at Crown Dental Group Rowville and Narre Warren, Melbourne
Do you have concerns about your gum health? Contact our practice today to book in for a consultation or have any of your questions answered.
Same-day appointments are also available, and emergency visits will be accommodated right away.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the gums and supporting structures of teeth. It begins with gingivitis, marked by swollen, red, and bleeding gums, which, if left untreated, can progress to periodontitis. This stage involves infection beneath the gum line, leading to pockets forming between the gums and teeth. Over time, the immune response and bacterial toxins can cause damage to bone and connective tissues, potentially resulting in tooth mobility and loss. Risk factors include poor oral hygiene, smoking, certain health conditions, and genetic factors. Early detection through regular dental check-ups and proper treatment, including deep cleaning and effective oral care, are essential to manage and prevent its progression.
What can increase the risk of periodontal disease?
Several factors can increase the risk of periodontal disease (gum disease), including poor oral hygiene practices, smoking and tobacco use, genetic predisposition, certain health conditions like diabetes and immune disorders, hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause, ageing, chronic stress, inadequate nutrition, teeth grinding or clenching, crooked teeth that are harder to clean, certain medications that affect gum health, and a history of prior gum disease. By addressing these risk factors through effective oral hygiene, avoiding tobacco, managing health conditions, and maintaining regular dental visits, you can lower your susceptibility to developing gum disease and promote better oral health.
What are the dangers of periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease (gum disease) can lead to various dangers and complications, including tooth loss due to severe damage to supporting structures, gum recession exposing sensitive tooth roots, bone loss around teeth, spread of infection to other parts of the body, chronic inflammation affecting overall health, potential pregnancy complications, aesthetic concerns with receding gums, persistent bad breath, discomfort, and compromised quality of life. Addressing periodontal disease through timely treatment, regular dental visits, effective oral hygiene practices, and managing risk factors is essential to mitigate these potential risks and promote both oral and systemic well-being.
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