Are your Gums

Healthy?

Contact Details for Public Dental Services

Developed by NSW Oral Health Promotion Network

Additional copies can be downloaded from NSW Health website:

www.health.nsw.gov.au/cohs/resources.asp

Hard copies are available from the Better Health Care Publications Warehouse: (02) 9887 5450

Local Health District Phone Number

South Western Sydney Sydney 02 9293 3333

South Eastern Sydney 1300 134 226

Illawarra Shoalhaven 1300 369 651

Northern NSWMid North Coast Hunter New England

1300 651 625

Central Coast 1300 789 404

MurrumbidgeeSouthern NSW

1800 450 046

Western Sydney 02 9845 6766

Far West

Western NSW1300 552 626

Developed by NSW Oral Health Promotion Network with thanks to Colgate

Nepean Blue Mountains

Northern Sydney 1300 732 503

(02) 4734 2387or 1300 769 221

SHPN: (COHS) 170034

What is gum disease?Gum (periodontal) diseases range from sore, tender or bleeding gums (gingivitis) to a serious disease that results in major damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth (periodontitis). In the worst cases, teeth can fall out or may need to be removed. The progression of this disease depends a great deal on how well you take care of your teeth and gums every day.

What causes gum disease?Gum disease is caused by plaque – a sticky colourless film of bacteria that form on the teeth.

How do I know if I have gum disease?Gum disease can occur at any age, but is most common among adults. If detected in its’ early stages, gum disease can be reversed by your dentist if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Gums that are red,puffy, swollen or tender

• Gums that bleed duringbrushing or flossing

• Teeth that look longerbecause you gums havereceded

• Gums that haveseparated, or pulled away from your teethcreating a pocket

• Pus coming from your teeth and gums

• Constant bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth

How is gum disease treated?The early stages of gum disease can often be reversed with proper brushing and flossing. Good oral health practices and regular dental visits will help prevent plaque from building up.

A professional cleaning by your dentist or hygienist is the only way to remove plaque that has built up and hardened into tartar. Your dentist or hygienist will clean or ‘scale’ your teeth to remove the tartar above and below the gumline.

Can gum disease affect my general health?YES! If left untreated, gum disease can increase the risk of:

• Heart ttack or stroke

• Blood sugar level problems for diabetics

• Giving birth to preterm or low weight babies

Am I at risk of gum disease?Certain behaviour or illnesses can increase your risk.

Are you a smoker? Smoking can increase your risk of gum disease and reduce the effectiveness of its’ treatment.

Do you suffer from diabetes? People with diabetes are at a higher risk of infections including gum disease.

Are you taking medications? There are many prescription and over the counter medications that can lessen the flow of saliva in the mouth. Without enough saliva, the mouth is vulnerable to infections including gum disease.

Is your immune system compromised? Diseases like cancer or AIDS and their treatments can also negatively affect the health of gums.

Other: Hormonal changes in girls and women (puberty, pregnancy and menopause) can increase the risk of gum disease.

How can I keep my teeth and gums healthy?• Brush your teeth twice a day

(with a fluoride toothpaste)

• Remove plaque from betweenyour teeth every day with floss orinterdental brushes

• Visit the dentist regularly for a check-up and professional clean

• Limit sugary, sweet food and drinks,especially between meals

• Drink tap water every day

• Eat a healthy diet

• Don’t smoke