Explaining gum disease

In this short video, enjoy the expert advice from the Australian Dental Association as they explain gum disease.

The full transcription of this video is provided below.

Transcript

Explaining gum disease with the Australian Dental Association.

• Healthy gums should appear pink and firm. They should not bleed during cleaning.
• If bacteria are not cleared away from the teeth regularly, the surrounding gums can become inflamed. This is called gingivitis.
• Inflamed gums can appear enlarged, red in colour, and may bleed more easily than healthy gums.
• Thorough tooth brushing and cleaning between the teeth will help gums with gingivitis, return to normal.
• Cigarette smokers and people with poorly controlled diabetes have a greater risk of developing severe gum disease called periodontitis.
• Periodontitis causes bone around affected teeth to recede. The gums may recede as well.
• If the gums don’t recede, a space forms called a periodontal pocket.
• Periodontitis can cause the teeth to move, allowing gaps to form.
• Treatment from a dentist or periodontal specialist is required.
• Without treatment, affected teeth may become painful, loose, or even fall out.
• Cleaning between your teeth is important in preventing and treating gum disease. Your toothbrush can not reach these areas.
• And visit your dentist regularly to prevent problems, and keep on smiling.