Gum Disease | Cosmetic Dentistry Clinic

Gingivitis — Early Stage

• ◇Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, characterised by inflammation of the gum tissue
• ◇Common signs include bleeding during brushing or flossing, redness, and mild swelling of the gums
• ◇At this stage, the bone and deeper supporting structures are not yet affected
• ◇Gingivitis is often reversible with appropriate oral hygiene improvements and professional dental cleaning

Periodontitis — Advanced Stage

• ◇Periodontitis develops when gingivitis is not managed and the inflammation extends to the deeper supporting structures
• ◇The gum tissue may separate from the teeth, forming pockets where bacteria can accumulate
• ◇Progressive bone loss may occur, potentially affecting the stability of the teeth over time
• ◇Unlike gingivitis, the damage caused by periodontitis may not be fully reversible, making early detection particularly important

Contributing Factors

• ◇Plaque and tartar buildup — When plaque is not removed regularly, it hardens into tartar (calculus), which can only be removed by a dental hygienist and creates a persistent source of gum irritation
• ◇Inadequate oral hygiene — Inconsistent brushing and flossing allows bacteria to accumulate along the gumline, increasing the risk of gum inflammation
• ◇Smoking and tobacco use — Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for gum disease, impairing blood flow to the gums and reducing the body’s ability to fight infection
• ◇Hormonal changes — Fluctuations during pregnancy, puberty, menstruation, or menopause may increase gum sensitivity and susceptibility to inflammation
• ◇Medical conditions — Conditions such as diabetes, immune disorders, and certain systemic diseases may affect gum health and increase vulnerability to periodontal problems
• ◇Medications — Some medications may reduce saliva flow or cause gum tissue changes, creating conditions that favour bacterial growth and gum inflammation

Consider Professional Review If

• ◇Gums bleed during brushing or flossing — Regular bleeding is one of the most common early indicators of gum inflammation and should not be dismissed as normal
• ◇Persistent swelling or redness — Gums that remain swollen, red, or puffy over time may indicate ongoing inflammation that requires professional attention
• ◇Bad breath or changes in gum appearance — Persistent halitosis or noticeable changes in the colour, texture, or position of the gums may be associated with gum disease
• ◇Teeth feel loose or shifting — If teeth begin to feel mobile or change position, this may suggest that the supporting structures have been affected and warrants prompt assessment
• ◇Gum recession — If the gums appear to be pulling away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth surface or root, professional evaluation is advisable

Potential Effects

• ◇Gum tissue changes — Chronic inflammation may cause the gums to recede, become tender, or bleed more readily during daily oral care
• ◇Bone loss — Advanced periodontitis may lead to progressive loss of the jawbone that supports the teeth, potentially affecting tooth stability
• ◇Tooth mobility — As supporting structures weaken, teeth may become loose, shift position, or eventually require extraction in severe cases
• ◇Difficulty with oral hygiene — Deep pockets and gum recession may make effective cleaning more challenging, creating a cycle that favours further bacterial accumulation
• ◇Increased sensitivity — Gum recession may expose root surfaces, leading to heightened sensitivity to temperature changes and certain foods

Management Approaches May Include

• ◇Professional cleaning — Thorough removal of plaque and tartar by a dental hygienist helps reduce bacterial irritation and allows the gum tissue to begin healing
• ◇Oral hygiene guidance — Personalised advice on brushing technique, flossing, and interdental cleaning to support effective home care between professional visits
• ◇Periodontal treatment — For more advanced cases, deeper cleaning procedures such as scaling and root planing may be recommended to address bacteria below the gumline
• ◇Ongoing monitoring — Regular dental check-ups allow your dentist to track gum health over time and adjust the management plan as needed
• ◇Tooth replacement options — In cases where teeth have been lost due to advanced gum disease, options such as dental implants may be considered once the gum condition is stabilised

General Care Guidance

• ◇Consistent oral hygiene — Brush gently twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush, paying particular attention to the gumline where plaque tends to accumulate
• ◇Interdental cleaning — Use floss or interdental brushes daily to clean between the teeth, where a toothbrush alone may not reach effectively
• ◇Do not avoid bleeding areas — If gums bleed during brushing, continue to clean the area gently rather than avoiding it, as plaque removal is essential for reducing inflammation
• ◇Seek professional advice — If symptoms persist or worsen, arrange a professional dental assessment to evaluate your gum health and discuss appropriate care options