Gum health 101: Understanding gingivitis and periodontitis
We all know how important it is to care for our teeth, but it’s just as essential to look after the gums and structures that support them. Gums protect the bones that hold our teeth in place. While we can’t always see these bones, they provide the foundation our teeth need to stay secure. That’s why gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss.
Gum disease
Gum disease develops in two stages: gingivitis and periodontitis. Most people will experience gingivitis at some point, which can be triggered by holiday indulgence, illness or lapses in our usual oral care routine. Smoking and vaping can also harm gum health by reducing blood flow and increasing plaque buildup.
Beyond affecting your teeth, gum disease is linked to serious health conditions like diabetes, strokes and heart disease. The good news is that maintaining good gum health is also tied to a balanced diet. Nutrients like calcium, vitamins D and C and protein support the connective tissues in your gums and help keep them strong.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and occurs when plaque builds up on the teeth and along the gum line. Plaque is made up of bacteria that trigger an immune response, leading to inflammation. This is why gums appear swollen and red when gingivitis develops.
Gingivitis can cause changes to the surface layers of the gums, often where the gum and tooth meet. The gums become swollen, red and can bleed, especially when you brush. As the gums swell and pull away, they no longer work like a firm ‘collar’ around the tooth and small pockets can form where food and bacteria settle.
When gingivitis is in the early stages, you can reverse it by paying more attention to brushing. Follow your dentist’s advice for the most effective brushing technique. For many people, the temptation can be to avoid brushing because the gums are tender and may bleed, though these are signs that more brushing is needed. Brushing at least twice each day with a soft toothbrush, using a fluoridated toothpaste and flossing daily helps to remove bacteria and plaque which cause gingivitis. Some people also like to use a tongue brush which can help to remove bacteria from the tongue.
Periodontitis
When you don’t treat gingivitis, it can develop into periodontitis, causing inflammation and infection in the tissues that hold your teeth in place. Spaces can develop between the tooth root and the gum, creating pockets where food and plaque build-up. Over time, these pockets get larger, the periodontium gets damaged and you can lose bone. As the bone can’t hold the tooth anymore, it becomes loose and may need to be removed.
Once a tooth loses its anchor, saving it becomes very difficult. Regular dental checks and preventing gum disease in the first place help you keep your teeth throughout your life.
Looking after your gums
There are a few things you can do to care for your gums, most of them focused on removing the plaque that causes gum disease:
- Brush your gums and teeth, paying special attention to where they meet. Angle the brush at 45° for optimal cleaning.
- Use a soft-headed toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Replace your toothbrush regularly, especially after you’ve recovered from being unwell.
- Clean between your teeth with floss or interdental brushes to remove food from nearly half the surface area that brushing can’t reach.
- Make regular dental visits a priority. Book an appointment to keep your smile healthy and bright all year long.
References
Flossing (ada.org.au)
Gum disease – Better Health Channel
Gum Disease (cdc.gov)
https://www.dentalhealth.org/gum-disease
https://www.pacificsmilesdental.com.au/news/reduce-the-impact-of-gum-disease-by-knowing-the-early-signs/
https://www.teeth.org.au/gum-diseases
https://www.teeth.org.au/gum-disease-treatment
https://www.teeth.org.au/smoking-and-vaping
