According to the Australian Department of Health, better than two out of ten Australians suffer from moderate to severe gum disease, also known as periodontitis. This condition results from accumulations on a person’s gums and teeth that nourish bacteria. When those bacteria grow out of balance, they cause an infection that can progress if not treated.
The good news is that gum disease is preventable, however it is only reversible in its early stages (gingivitis). Once bone loss and gum recession have occurred they generally cannot be recovered. That’s why our team at Telopea Park Dental recommends periodic check-ups to detect periodontal disease and dental cleans to remove the build-up that sustains the infection.
Signs of Gum Disease
If you’re concerned about having gum disease, the first things to watch for are these emerging symptoms:
- Gums bleed with regular brushing or flossing
- Inflammation and Redness of gums
- Minor gum pain
- Bad breath
We suggest that anyone experiencing these symptoms may still treat their gum disease to the point of reversal. So, in addition to your six-month dental exams and cleans, you’ll also want to establish an ideal at-home oral hygiene routine.
This includes flossing followed by brushing for the full two minutes, ending with an antiseptic mouth rinse to further diminish bacteria in your mouth. Emphasising this routine, especially before bed, you can work with us towards making your gum health the best it can be.