Gum Treatment

Gum disease,clinically known as periodontitis, is an infection of the gums and the supporting tissues that hold your teeth in place.

It begins when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on the teeth and along the gumline. If plaque isn't removed through regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleans, it hardens into calculus (tartar) and the bacteria begin to infect the surrounding gum tissue.

Over time, this infection causes the bone supporting the teeth to break down, and if left untreated, it can ultimately lead to tooth loss.

While anyone can develop gum disease, certain factors increase the risk. These include smoking, high levels of stress, genetic predisposition, and systemic conditions such as diabetes. If any of these apply to you, it's particularly important to maintain regular hygiene appointments so that any early signs can be identified and managed promptly.

Gum disease doesn't always cause pain in its early stages, which is one of the reasons regular dental check-ups are so important. Common signs to look out for include:

• Red, swollen, or tender gums, gums that bleed when you brush or floss
• Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth
• Teeth that feel loose or have shifted position.

If you've noticed any of these symptoms, it's worth getting checked with our Unley dentist sooner rather than later.

Treatment for gum disease in Adelaide typically involves three to four appointments with our hygiene team.

During these appointments, plaque and calculus are meticulously removed from the teeth and below the gumline - a process that eliminates the bacterial build-up and gives the gum tissue the best possible environment to heal.

In some cases, a short course of antibiotics may also be recommended to help clear the infection.

For more severe or complex cases, we may refer you to a periodontist (a gum specialist) to ensure you receive the highest level of care.

Gum disease can be effectively treated and managed, but it does require ongoing commitment. Once the active infection has been brought under control through treatment, regular hygiene appointments become essential to maintaining the health of your gums and preventing the disease from progressing further.