Dentist Mona Vale
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Gum Disease

Periodontal (gum) diseases, including gingivitis and periodontitis, are serious infections that, left untreated, can lead to tooth loss. The word periodontal literally means "around the tooth." Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth.

Periodontal disease can affect one tooth or many teeth. It begins when the bacteria in plaque (the sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth) causes the gums to become inflamed.

In the mildest form of the disease, gingivitis, the gums redden, swell and bleed easily. There is usually little or no discomfort. Gingivitis is often caused by inadequate oral hygiene. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good oral home care.

Untreated gingivitis can advance to periodontitis. With time, plaque can spread and grow below the gum line. Toxins produced by the bacteria in plaque irritate the gums. The toxins stimulate a chronic inflammatory response in which the body in essence turns on itself, and the tissues and bone that support the teeth are broken down and destroyed. Gums separate from the teeth, forming pockets (spaces between the teeth and gums) that become infected. As the disease progresses, the pockets deepen and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed. Often, this destructive process has very mild symptoms. Eventually, teeth can become loose and may have to be removed.


Risk Factors:

• Smoking. Need another reason to quit smoking? Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors associated with the development of periodontitis. Additionally, smoking can lower the chances of success of some treatments.

• Hormonal changes in girls/women. These changes can make gums more sensitive and make it easier for gingivitis to develop.

• Diabetes. People with diabetes are at higher risk for developing infections, including periodontal disease.

• Stress. Research shows that stress can make it more difficult for our bodies to fight infection, including periodontal disease.

• Medications. Some drugs, such as antidepressants and some heart medicines, can affect oral health because they lessen the flow of saliva. (Saliva has a protective effect on teeth and gums.)

• Illnesses. Diseases like cancer or AIDS and their treatments can also affect the health of gums.

• Genetic susceptibility. Some people are more prone to severe periodontal disease than others


Several warning signs that can signal a problem:

• Gums that bleed easily

• Red, swollen, tender gums

• Gums that have pulled away from the teeth

• Persistent bad breath or bad taste

• Permanent teeth that are loose or separating

• Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

• Any change in the fit of partial dentures

It is possible to have periodontal disease and have no warning signs. That is one reason why regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are very important. Treatment methods depend upon the type of disease and how far the condition has progressed. Good oral hygiene at home is essential to help keep periodontal disease.

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Mona Vale Location

Level 1, Suite 28 Waratah Court, 12-14 Waratah Street, Mona Vale

Surgery Hours
Monday   8:30am - 5:30pm
Tuesday   8:30am - 5:30pm
Wednesday   8:30am - 5:30pm
Thursday   8:30am - 5:30pm
Friday   8:30am - 5:30pm
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  • Home
  • Services
    • Children's Dental Service
    • Treatment for Snoring or Sleep Apnea
    • Dental Bridges & Crowns
    • Dental Inlays & Onlays
    • Porcelain Veneers
    • White Fillings
    • Tooth Bonding
    • Dental Implants
    • Bruxism Treatment
    • Periodontal Therapy
    • Mouthguard Fitting
    • Osteopath
  • About Us
    • Mike Hubbard
    • Malcolm's Art & Poetry
  • FAQ
    • Articles >
      • Tooth Brushing Tips
      • How To Get Shinier Whiter Teeth
      • What Is Dental Fluoride?
      • Teeth Whitening
      • Overcoming Your Fear Of The Dentist
      • What Is Periodontal Gum Disease?
  • Contact
  • 02 9997 1400