gum disease
Gum disease is a general term describing the inflammation and destruction of the tissue supporting the teeth. Most of the population suffers from some form of gum disease.
What causes gum disease?
The main cause of gum disease is the build up of mature plaque deposits around the teeth due to poor oral hygiene. Plaque develops anaerobic flora as it matures. The organisms release a variety of irritant metabolites, destructive enzymes and antigens, which stimulate inflammatory and immune systems. These then cause local damage in the gingival tissues, which bring about the classic signs of gum disease ie. inflammation of the tissues which support the teeth and attach them to the jaw bone.
If the inflammation is only in the gum tissue it is called gingivitis – which is usually reversible. However, if the inflammation progresses to the deeper supporting structures, like the bone, it is called periodontitis. Unfortunately, loss of these supporting structures may be irreversible.
Gum disease can sometimes go unnoticed until it is quite advanced. Often the first signs are bleeding gums when brushing. As gum disease progresses, the gums may become detached from the teeth and pockets can appear between the gum and teeth. If this is allowed to progress eventually the teeth become loose. Sometimes an abscess can occur in deep pockets.
The plaque that continually forms on teeth and gums every day is a major cause of gum disease as it builds up where the gum and teeth meet, causing the gum to be inflamed. You may have noticed that when you floss your gums bleed. This is due to gum disease.
Pregnancy and smoking can make gum disease worse.
What is tartar (calculus)?
Calculus is plaque that has mineralised or hardened. It is also known as tartar. It consists of 70% inorganic salt and 30% micro-organisms and organic material. Calculus is generally covered with a layer of plaque. It also absorbs plaque into its porous structure. Therefore, the presence of calculus makes effective oral hygiene almost impossible and should be removed to prevent, or assist in the control of, gum disease. However, once calculus has formed, it can only be removed by professional cleaning by a dentist or hygienist.
Can tartar (calculus) be removed?
Tartar can only be removed by professional cleaning by a dentist or hygenist.
What if tartar (calculus) is not removed?
If tartar is not removed, the fibres which hold the teeth to the bone, and the bone itself, can be attacked and the pocket will deepen. As the bone is destroyed the tooth loosens and sometimes the gum will shrink back.
How can gum disease be prevented?
Gum disease will only occur where there is plaque. To avoid gum disease you need to maintain an effective oral care routine, including regular visits to the dentist. Chewing sugarfree gum, like ORBIT Complete after meals and snacks has also been shown to help reduce the risk of plaque.
Click here for the oral health care routine