• Free Call 1300 315 540
  • 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

    Office 1, 822 Anzac Parade
    Maroubra, NSW, 2035

  • Opening Hours
    • Mon to Wed 8am – 6pm
    • Thu 8am – 6pm
    • Fri 8am – 6pm
    • Sat 8am – 2pm

Gum Disease

Periodontal disease, more often known as gum disease, occurs when bacteria attacks and weakens the supportive structures of the teeth. Gum disease is one of the main causes behind tooth loss in adults. The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis, where plaque around the teeth creates sore, inflamed and sometimes receding gums. The most common sign of gingivitis is bleeding during brushing. The second stage of gum disease is periodontitis, where bacteria penetrate deeply into the gums to attack the supporting structures around the teeth. Patients with periodontitis will experience sore gums, loose teeth and even tooth loss.

While almost all adults will suffer from gum disease at some stage in their lives, gum disease often goes unnoticed in its most treatable form – with advanced stages creating irreversible damage and may need to be referred to a Periodontist who specialises in treating gum disease. 

Regular visits to your dentist will determine whether your gums are healthy. During a normal dental check-up, x-rays are often needed to help diagnose any gum problems. Gum disease causes permanent damage to the supporting tissues; therefore, the aim of treatment is to stop the progression of the disease through controlling the bacteria. Prevention is best, and to a large extent periodontitis can be prevented by good oral hygiene and early intervention when problems are identified. Good dental hygiene is one of the most important factors in preventing gum disease. Your dentist will show you proper brushing and flossing techniques that will help ensure healthy teeth and gums.

Don’t let a preventable issue affect your smile; our Parramatta dental clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to keep your teeth and gums healthy all year round.

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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