How to Get Rid of Gum Disease?

Is your gum bleeding every time you brush your teeth? Do they look red and feel swollen? Do experience sharp pain when chewing food? Heads up. You may have gum disease.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is an inflammation of the gum line and, if left untreated, can further affect the surrounding bone. It begins with bacterial growth forming plaque, a sticky, colourless film that coats the teeth. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar. Unfortunately, brushing and flossing cannot remove tartar. You will need a dental professional to conduct prophylaxis or dental cleaning to fully remove it.

What are the symptoms of gum diseases?

There are three phases of gum disease infection:

1. Gingivitis – This is the earliest stage and the most common gum disease. You will see a small buildup of plaque in the gum line as well as some redness of the gums. You may also notice some bleeding during brushing or flossing. Because it is just the early stage, it can be easily reversed.

Symptoms include:

Red and swollen gums
Bleeding gums, especially during brushing or flossing
Receding gum line
Bad breath

2. Periodontitis – This is the more serious stage of gum disease. The supporting bone and soft tissue that support the teeth are irreversibly damaged. Pockets that support the growth of plaque begin to form. You will need professional gum disease treatment as well as improved oral hygiene to prevent further damage.

Symptoms include:

Bright red and sore gums
Formation of periodontal pockets
Bad breath
Bad taste in the mouth
Gums that are tender to the touch
Buildup of pus between the teeth and gums

3. Advanced Periodontitis – The final and the most severe stage of gum disease results in the loss of gum tissue and the bone that supports the teeth. It causes loosening and shifting teeth and greatly affects eating and communicating. If left untreated, a periodontist will need to remove some of the teeth to prevent further infection.

Symptoms include:

Bleeding and swollen gums
Severe receding gums
Chronic bad breath
Loose and misaligned teeth
Deep periodontal pockets

How to relieve of gum disease?

If you are experiencing some of the symptoms of gum disease, you need to consult a dental professional immediately for diagnosis.

To determine whether you have gum disease and the extent of the infection, a dental professional will examine your mouth to look for tartar buildup and bleeding. They will also review your medical history to identify some factors that may have contributed to your symptoms. Smoking, chronic conditions and certain medications can also cause gum disease. You will also undergo dental imaging to check if there is bone loss and check the depth of the periodontal pockets.

Image source: Wikipedia

For gingivitis and mild periodontitis, gum disease treatment involves scaling and root planing. Scaling uses a laser or ultrasonic device to remove tartar and bacteria from your teeth and gums. Root planing smoothes the rough areas on the root’s surface to prevent bacteria from adhering.

Get Gum Disease Treatment at North Shore Periodontics

North Shore Periodontics offers a conservative gum disease treatment through scaling and root planing. Using our state-of-the-art equipment and the latest air polishing technology, we probe deep into your gum pockets to remove plaque and tartar. For effective gum disease treatment in Sydney, visit us at Suite 104A, Level 1/22 Clarke St, Crows Nest. You may also call (02) 8026 0400 and schedule an appointment.