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FROM DENTAL ON CAMBRIDGE
When most people think about dental problems, they think of cavities or toothaches. But one of the most serious threats to your oral health is often painless, slow-moving, and easy to overlook – periodontal (gum) disease.
Periodontal disease is a chronic infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It commonly begins as gingivitis, causing red, swollen, or bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, leading to gum recession, bone loss, loose teeth, and, ultimately, tooth loss.
Our experienced team at Dental on Cambridge regularly sees patients from across Brisbane who are surprised to learn they have gum disease – often because they had no pain at all. Bleeding gums when brushing, persistent bad breath, or teeth that appear longer than before are early warning signs that many people ignore.
So what causes periodontal disease? The primary culprit is plaque – a sticky film of bacteria that builds up around the teeth and gumline. If plaque isn’t removed through proper brushing, flossing, and professional cleans, it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional. Over time, this bacteria triggers inflammation that damages the gums and bone supporting your teeth. Certain factors increase your risk, including smoking or vaping, diabetes, stress, hormonal changes, genetics, and even clenching or grinding your teeth. Busy lifestyles, long commutes, and putting dental visits on the back burner can also allow gum disease to progress unnoticed.
The good news? Periodontal disease is manageable, especially when detected early. At Dental on Cambridge, our compassionate dentists and oral health professionals take a thorough and personalised approach to gum care. We assess gum health, measure pocket depths around your teeth, and create tailored treatment plans to stabilise and protect your smile. Treatment may include professional deep cleaning (often called periodontal therapy), ongoing maintenance visits, and guidance on improving your at-home oral hygiene routine. For more advanced cases, our experienced team works with periodontists who are specialists in this area to focus on slowing disease progression and preserving your natural teeth for as long as possible.
Gum health is also closely linked to overall health. Research has shown connections between periodontal disease and conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and inflammation elsewhere in the body. Looking after your gums isn’t just about your smile – it’s about your wellbeing. If you’ve noticed bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or haven’t had a dental check-up in a while, now is the time to act. Early intervention can make all the difference. Book a comprehensive gum health assessment with our experienced team at Dental on Cambridge today – because healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile.
