Understanding Periodontal Disease: Why It's More Than Just A Dental Issue

By Lauren Stanta - Oral Health Therapist

We’ve all been told to brush our teeth and floss, but have you ever thought about the health of the gums surrounding those teeth? Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, affects more people than we realize—and it’s not just about your smile. In fact, periodontal disease is linked to a variety of serious health problems in the rest of the body.

What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease starts with something most of us have heard of: gingivitis. This is the mildest form of gum disease, where the gums become red, swollen, and might bleed when you brush or floss. It’s usually caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth.
If gingivitis isn’t treated, it can progress into a more serious form called periodontitis. In this stage, the infection reaches deeper into the gums and affects the bone that supports your teeth. You might notice gum recession, loose teeth, bad breath, and tooth loss. Periodontal disease is often silent, meaning you might not experience obvious symptoms until it's already too late.

The Link Between Gum Disease and Your Overall Health
It might be surprising, but the health of your gums is closely tied to the health of your body. Research has shown that untreated periodontal disease can increase the risk of serious conditions, such as:
Heart disease: The bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation in the blood vessels, which is linked to heart disease.
Diabetes: Gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar levels, and diabetes can make you more susceptible to infections, including gum disease.
Stroke: Poor oral health has been linked to an increased risk of stroke.
Respiratory infections: The bacteria in gum disease can be inhaled into the lungs, potentially leading to infections such as pneumonia.
In other words, taking care of your gums is not just about looking good when you smile—it’s about taking care of your body as a whole. If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease we always highly recommend seeing a GP for a health check.

Why Regular Dental Visits Matter
You might wonder, “If I’m brushing and flossing, why do I need to visit the dentist regularly?” Great question! Even if you’re good with your oral hygiene, you can’t always see the early signs of gum disease. Your dentist and oral health therapist are trained to spot the subtle changes in your gums and teeth that could indicate the start of gum disease. Early detection can save you a lot of trouble down the road!

The Importance of Periodontal Treatment
If your dentist/oral health therapist diagnoses you with periodontal disease, it’s important to take action. Treatment may involve a deeper cleaning or a series of professional cleanings to remove bacteria and tartar buildup under a local anaesethic. For more advanced cases, a referral to a specialist may be required for surgical options might be required to repair damaged tissues and bone.

The Role of 3-Monthly Maintenance Cleanings
After undergoing periodontal treatment, it’s crucial to maintain a routine of regular dental visits. Most people with periodontal disease benefit from cleanings every three months, known as maintenance cleanings. These visits are essential for:
Preventing relapse: Periodontal disease can come back if it's not closely monitored. Regular cleanings help keep it under control. It also takes 3 months for the gums to properly heal after initial treatment, so we use this appointment to check it is healing to prevent the relapse.
Catching problems early: Your dentist/oral health therapist can spot early signs of gum disease before it gets worse.
Keeping your smile healthy: Regular cleanings keep your teeth and gums in top shape, reducing the risk of tooth loss or further complications.

Think of these visits as an investment in your long-term health, not just something to check off your to-do list.