Gum Disease
Gingivitis
Gingivitis (or gum disease) is a condition where there is inflammation in your gums due to the buildup and presence of dental plaque alongside it. The most common sign of gingivitis is bleeding gums, either when you eat or brush. Rest assured that gingivitis is only temporary, and can be rectified through adequate brushing and flossing habits. By having great oral hygiene, this will reduce the amount of plaque that resides along your gums, in turn reducing the chance of you having gingivitis! At your 6 monthly review appointments, our dentists at On Track Dental will be more than happy to advise you whether you have gingivitis, and methods on how to reduce it from happening.
Periodontitis
If gingivitis continues for a long time, it can progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis is an advanced form of gingivitis where the bacteria in dental plaque has caused your jawbone to slowly dissolve over time. This can lead to pain, sensitivity, and eventual tooth loss.
Over a period of time (usually weeks to months), dental plaque can transform into tartar (also known as dental calculus) if not removed with good hygiene, which then initiates the process of allowing periodontitis. The consequences of periodontitis (receding gums, bone damage, exposed roots, sensitivity) are often irreversible, and treatment changes into just management of the symptoms and prevention of the disease from worsening.
Our dentists at On Track Dental will inform you if you currently have, or likely will have, some form of periodontitis, as early and thorough management is integral in preserving your teeth and gums. Sometimes, we may refer you to a Periodontist, who is simply a ‘gum specialist.’
