Gum Disease: The Silent Health Hazard

Gum Disease can cause more than just bad breath. For some sufferers, gum disease has been associated with worsening cardiovascular disease, diabetes, stroke and in some studies has been linked to an increased rate of preterm birth! The reason behind this is that gum disease is an inflammatory and bacterial disease that begins in the mouth and indirectly impacts the rest of the body. Scientists believe that inflammation and the inflammatory chemicals caused by periodontal disease may be responsible for the ill-effects away from the mouth.

For most individuals, gum disease is mild and bleeding on brushing is simply an indication that their hygiene habits (brushing flossing, regular professional cleans) have lapsed. This type of inflammation is called gingivitis and is reversible with good hygiene habits.

However, for others bleeding and receding gums, bad breath, loose teeth and progressive gaps in between the teeth are common symptoms of a serious form of gum disease called Periodontitis. Periodontitis if left unmanaged, will eventually cause loss of teeth and bone support, make treatment options like implants unviable and create oral disability, where normal functions like eating and aesthetics are compromised. This is the type of gum disease is of greatest concern to OVERALL general health and an individual’s risk for periodontitis, has been shown to increase with age.

Periodontitis is best diagnosed during a full dental check up and there is no substitute for this in obtaining an accurate diagnosis and customised treatment plan.