• Free Call 02 9344 8822
  • Address

    Parramatta Clinic

    Parramatta Dental Clinic

    The Hall, 356 Church Street
    (Corner of Church and Palmer St)
    Parramatta, NSW, 2150

    Maroubra Clinic

    Maroubra Dental Clinic

    Ground Floor
    Office 1, 822 Anzac Parade
    Maroubra, NSW, 2035

  • Opening Hours
    • Monday: 8:00am - 6:00pm
    • Tuesday: 9:00am - 6:00pm
    • Wednesday: 8:00am - 6:00pm
    • Thursday: 8:00am - 6:00pm
    • Friday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
    • Saturdays: 8:00am - 1:00pm

Gum Disease

Periodontal disease, which is commonly known as gum disease, can be the result of bacteria attacks that weaken the supportive structures of the teeth. This disease is one of the main causes of tooth loss in adults, making it a high priority when it comes to preventative dental care.

The first stage of gum disease, gingivitis, occurs when plaque around the teeth creates sore, inflamed, and even receding gums. If you’re experiencing bleeding during blushing, this may be a sign that gingivitis has occurred.

After gingivitis, periodontitis is the second stage of gum disease. During this stage, bacteria that have penetrated into the gums begin to attack the teeth’s supporting structures. This can result in sore gums, loose teeth, and in some extreme cases, tooth loss.

Gum disease is so common that almost all adults will experience it at some stage of their lives, but it’s often unnoticed when it’s in its most treatable form. The advanced stages of gum disease can create irreversible damage, often requiring referral to a Periodontist who specialises in its treatment.

By visiting your dentist regularly, we can assess the health of your gums, identifying any early signs of gum disease before it reaches a critical point of damage. X-rays during standard dental check-ups can help diagnose gum problems and reduce the risk of ongoing gum disease development.

As gum disease can cause permanent, lasting damage to supporting tissues, treatment that stops the progression of the disease through reducing and controlling the bacteria is paramount.

Prevention is one of the most powerful ways to remove the risk of negative gum disease consequences. One of the best ways to prevent gum disease is to practice high standards of oral hygiene, which your dentist can support through the introduction of appropriate brushing and flossing techniques.

Find support for preventative dental care with the friendly, expert team at Maroubra Dental Avenue.

Gum Disease Faqs

“Gum disease” describes a range of conditions that affect the supporting tissues for the teeth. The supporting tissues comprise both the surface tissues that can be seen in the mouth and also the deeper tissues of the bone, root surface and the ligament that connects the teeth to the bone.

Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria. Bacteria form a ‘plaque’ which is a sticky, colourless film that forms on your teeth, particularly around the gum line. Other bacteria thrive deep in the gap between the gum and the tooth (the ‘pocket’). Some people are much more at risk of developing periodontal disease — smoking is one of the major risk factors. Other conditions such as diabetes, stress, pregnancy and various medications can all be contributing factors.

Yes. In the vast majority of cases the progression of gum disease can be arrested with appropriate care. Management of gum disease becomes more difficult and less predictable the more advanced the disease. Therefore, the sooner periodontitis is diagnosed and treated the better. Regular dental examinations are important to check for the presence of gum disease.

No. Bleeding gums are common but not OK. Healthy gums do not bleed. Bleeding is often an indication that the gums are inflamed. The inflammation is generally a response to the bacteria on the surface of the teeth. The bleeding may also arise from Periodontitis or traumatic cleaning. Bleeding gums are sometimes associated with serious medical conditions.

If you have bleeding gums you should get a dental check up.

Anyone. Many people will have a small amount of periodontitis, which gradually increases with age. However approximately 15% of the population will have a significant degree of periodontitis. The destruction of the tooth’s supporting tissues caused by periodontitis gets worse over time when left untreated, and is often seen more severely in the 45+ age group. However the different types of periodontitis may affect people of all ages. The risk for periodontitis is increased with poor oral hygiene, smoking, diabetes, a family history of periodontitis and a range of medical conditions, in particular those affecting the immune system.

What are some of the warning signs of periodontal disease?

  • Bleeding gums when you brush your teeth.
  • Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth.
  • Receding gums.
  • Sensitive teeth or gums.
  • Loose teeth or teeth that have moved.

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