When it comes to oral health, most people focus on their teeth, but healthy gums are just as important! That’s why February is Gum Disease Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating people about the risks of gum disease, how to prevent it and why early treatment is crucial.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum (periodontal) disease occurs when plaque and bacteria build up along your gumline. It often begins as gingivitis, with red, swollen or bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can turn into periodontitis, which can lead to receding gums, bone loss and even tooth loss.
Gum disease has also been linked to heart disease, diabetes and other health issues. However, catching it early and keeping up with good oral care can help keep your gums healthy and strong.
Signs of Gum Disease
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Gum recession
- Loose or shifting teeth
How We Treat Gum Disease at Markham Street Dental
Professional Cleanings
If gum disease is in its early stage (gingivitis), a thorough professional cleaning can help remove plaque and tartar buildup before it worsens. Combined with good at-home care, this can reverse gingivitis and restore gum health.
Scaling and Root Planing
We use scaling and root planing for early to moderate periodontitis—a deep-cleaning procedure that removes bacteria and tartar from beneath the gumline. This helps prevent further infection and encourages the gums to reattach to the teeth.
Laser Therapy
We may use laser therapy to target and remove infected gum tissue without surgery for advanced cases. This minimally invasive treatment promotes faster healing and reduces discomfort.
Periodontal Maintenance
Once gum disease has progressed beyond gingivitis, routine periodontal maintenance visits are essential to keep bacteria under control. These visits go beyond regular cleanings and help prevent reinfection.
Personalised Home Care Plans
Along with in-chair treatments, we’ll guide you on the best at-home care routine, including proper brushing, flossing and antimicrobial mouth rinses to keep your gums healthy.
How to Prevent Gum Disease
Gum disease is preventable with a few simple daily habits and regular dental care. Taking care of your gums protects your teeth and overall health. Here’s how you can keep your gums healthy and strong:
- Brush twice a day. — We recommend using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean along the gumline and remove plaque buildup. Electric toothbrushes can be even more effective at reaching tricky spots.
- Floss daily. — Brushing only cleans about 60 per cent of your teeth’s surfaces. Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from between teeth and along the gums. This helps prevent bacteria from causing inflammation.
- Visit your Armidale dentist regularly. — Professional cleanings remove hardened plaque (tartar) that can’t be brushed away at home. Regular check-ups also help catch early signs of gum disease before it becomes a bigger problem.
- Avoid smoking and eat a balanced diet. — Smoking weakens your immune system and makes it harder for your gums to heal. A diet rich in vitamins and minerals (especially vitamin C and calcium) helps keep your gums strong and resistant to infection.
Need Periodontal Treatment in Armidale, NSW?
The sooner gum disease is addressed, the better the outcome! We invite you to call us for an appointment today.