
1800 823 058 (AUS)

+84 922253888
Our mouths are full of bacteria. These bacteria, along with mucus and other particles, constantly form a sticky, colorless “ plaque” on teeth. Brushing and flossing help get rid of plague. Plaque that are not removed can harden and form “tartar” that brushing doesn’t clean. Only a professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist can remove tartar.
Gingivitis
The longer plaque and tartar are on teeth, the more harmful they become. The bacteria cause inflammation of the gums that is called “gingivitis.” In gingivitis, the gums become red, swollen and can bleed easily. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that can usually be reversed with daily brushing and flossing, and regular cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist. This form of gum disease does not include any loss of bone and tissue that hold teeth in place.
When gingivitis is not treated, it can advance to “periodontitis” (which means “inflammation around the tooth. ”In periodontitis, gums pull away from the teeth and form spaces (called “pockets”) that become infected. The body’s immune system fights the bacterial as the plaque spreads and grows below the gum line. Bacterial toxins and the body’s natural response to infection start to break down the bone and connective tissues that hold teeth in place. If not treated, the bones, gums, and tissue that support the teeth are destroyed. The teeth may eventually become loose and have to be removed.
People usually don’t show signs of gum disease until they are in their 30s – 40s. Men are more likely to have gum disease than women. Although teenagers rarely develop periodontitis, the milder form of gum disease. Most commonly, gum disease develops when plaque is allowed to build up along and under the gum line.
How do I know if I have gum disease?
Symptoms of gum disease are as follows:
Any of these symptons may be a serious problem, which should be checked by a dentist. At your dental visit the dentist or hygienist should:
The dentist or hygienist may also:
How is gum disease treated?
The main goal of treatment is to control the infection. The number and types of treatment may vary, depending on the extent of the gum disease. Any type of treatment requires that the patient keep up good daily care at home. The doctor may also suggest changing certain behaviors, such as quit smoking, is a way to improve treatment outcome.
Treatments range from non-surgical therapies that control bacterial growth to surgery to restore supportive tissues.
Treatments for gum disease that don’t involve surgery includes:
Some treatments for gum disease are surgical. Some examples are:
Medications.
Medications may be used with treatment that includes scaling and root planning, but they cannot always take the place of surgery. Depending on how far the disease has progressed, the dentist or periodontist may still suggest surgical treatment. Long – term need for surgery and whether they are effective over a long period of time. Listed on the next page are some medications that are currently used.