What is gum disease?

Gum disease occurs when the tissue that surrounds and supports your teeth becomes inflmamed.

Severe gum disease can lead to the loss of tissues that hold your teeth in place.

What are the types of gum disease?

The 2 main types of gum disease are:

• gingivitis
• periodontitis

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a common and mild form of gum disease. It occurs when plaque builds up on your teeth along your gumline.

Your gums become red and swollen, and may bleed easily when you brush. Gingivitis can also cause halitosis (bad breath).

Gingivitis can be treated and prevented with good mouth care. If gingivitis is not treated, it may cause a more severe form of gum disease called periodontitis.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis may cause the area of your gums closest to your teeth to become weak. Spaces may form between your teeth and your gums, and these may trap germs, leading to even more swelling.

Your gums may shrink down from the tooth, exposing the surface of the tooth’s root. This makes your tooth sensitive to cold and sweet foods and drinks.

Over time, the bone supporting your teeth can be lost, causing your teeth to become loose and possibly fall out. Periodontitis can be controlled with the help of your dental practitioner or periodontist (gum health specialist).

What are the symptoms of gum disease?

Symptoms of gum disease include:

• redness and swelling of your gums
• bleeding gums when you brush your teeth
• bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
• gums that are receding (pulling away from your teeth)
• sensitive teeth
• loose teeth

What causes gum disease?

Gum disease is caused by plaque, which is a sticky layer of germs that builds up on teeth and along the gumline. The germs (bacteria) in plaque irritate the gums, causing them to bleed easily.

If the plaque is not brushed off, it can become hard and further irritate the gums. Hardened plaque is called ‘calculus’ or ‘tartar’. It can only be removed by a dental practitioner.

You are more likely to develop gum disease if you:

• smoke
• take illicit drugs such as speed, ice (crystal meth) or heroin
• are stressed
• have diabetes
• are taking certain medicines (such as medicines that cause a dry mouth)
• have poor nutrition
• are pregnant or going through puberty

When should I see my dentist or dental practitioner?

You should see your dental practitioner regularly for check-ups. See your dental practitioner as soon as possible if you have swollen or bleeding gums, or if your teeth feel loose.

How is gum disease diagnosed?

Your dental practitioner will ask about your symptoms and will examine your teeth and gums. They may recommend taking x-rays of your teeth.

How is gum disease treated?

Your dental practitioner will clean any plaque and tartar from your teeth. They will also treat the roots of the teeth to get rid of the germs, if needed.

Your dental practitioner will also provide information on how to cleaning your teeth well.

Can gum disease be cured?

Gingivitis can be cured without permanent damage.

Periodontitis can't be cured, but it can be controlled. The bone loss may be very slow or stopped.

Can gum disease be prevented?

You can prevent gum disease by gently brush your teeth and gums twice a day with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.

Even if brushing causes bleeding, continue to brush gently twice a day. You should also floss every day and visit your dental practitioner regularly for check-ups and cleaning.

Complications of gum disease

As well as harming your teeth, gum disease can affect your health in other ways.

There is growing evidence that poor oral health is associated with:

• cardiovascular disease (heart disease)
• diabetes
• stroke
• lung conditions
• mouth cancer

Resources and support

Read more about how to care for your teeth and gums at teeth.org.au.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.