Gum Disease

The focus of Smile Week 2006

What is gum disease?

A bacterial infection of the gum that leads to the early loss of teeth in 8 out of 10 New Zealand adults.

Gingivitis

The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis is a bacterial infection that develops when plaque bio film builds up around the necks of your teeth. It causes the gum tissue to swell, turn red and bleed easily when brushing or flossing.

Possible bad breath and bad taste.

Gingivitis is often painless and silent so much so that your dentist may detect any swelling or bleeding before you do. Remember - ask your dentist on hygienist for a gum check.

Code 1
Gingivitis

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Periodontal disease

When left untreated, gingivitis leads to periodontal disease - a deep-seated bacterial infection that can cause bone loss. This is a silent process accompanied by bleeding gums and bad odour.

Bacteria come from plaque bio film, the naturally occurring, sticky and colourless film that constantly attacks tooth enamel. If not removed carefully each day by brushing and flossing, plaque bio film hardens into a rough, porous substance called calculus (also know as tartar). Toxins (poisons), produced by bacteria in plaque bio film, irritate the gums.

They cause the gums to pull away from the teeth and periodontal pockets are formed which fill with more toxins and bacteria. As the disease progresses, pockets extend deeper and the plaque bio film moves further and further down until the bone that holds the tooth in place is destroyed. Eventually the tooth will fall out or require extraction.

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Does bone loss lead to tooth loss?

Not necessarily, if diagnosed during a regular visit to your dentist or dental hygienist. These are the professionals who can assess the levels of bone support with the help of x-rays, and, recommend the necessary treatment to restore health to the foundations of your teeth.

Code 2
Teeth X-ray

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Benefits of healthy gums

  • Healthy gums give a natural taste to food and drinks
  • No mouth odour - people friendly
  • Teeth for life
  • General body health is better

Code 0
Healthy gums

Healthy gums have a plae pink stippled appearance and are tight to the teeth.

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Gum Disease Symptoms

You have gum disease if you notice any of
these things:

  •  Bleeding gums when you brush
  •  Swollen puffy or red gums
  •  Your gums pull away from the teeth
  •  Your teeth are loose or separating
  •  You can't get rid of bad breath

 

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