FAQ regarding gum disease

Is it possible to cure periodontal disease?

Periodontitis does not have a cure, but it is able to be controlled and treated through the correct treatment and sound personal oral hygiene. Gingivitis, the milder form of gum disease which refers to the inflammation of the gums, is able to be reversed and cured as inflammation will subside once the plaque and bacteria have been professionally removed. Periodontitis is a chronic and non-curable bacterial infection which results in permanent bone and tissue loss and may require surgery.

Is periodontal disease reversible?

The bacteria that cause gum disease produce toxins that may damage the bone, gums and surrounding teeth. When gingivitis is present, which results in red, swollen gums that bleed easily, this condition can be reversed. The more severe form of gum disease, periodontitis, as previously stated, cannot be reversed and requires immediate treatment so as to halt the progression of the damage.

What causes periodontal bone loss?

The bacteria present in gum disease will spread beneath the gum line and result in inflammation (gingivitis – this does not result in bone loss) when this is left untreated and progresses, the infection can spread deeper within in the gingiva tissue and affect the supporting bone surrounding the teeth. This can result in tooth loosening and bone loss.

Is gum disease contagious?

The infection itself is not contagious, however, the bacteria that causes gum disease is able to be transmitted via saliva.

Is gum disease hereditary?

There have been some studies conducted that have produced evidence suggesting that one’s risk factors for developing periodontal disease can be influenced by genetic makeup. If you have someone in your family with gum disease, then your chances of developing it can be elevated, but this does not guarantee that you will get the infection, especially if you practice good oral hygiene consistently.

Can gum disease cause jaw pain?

Severe gum disease is able to result in jaw pain due to the loss of bone from infection. If you grind your teeth or clench your jaw on a regular basis, this can also contribute to your jaw pain.

What kind of chewing gum cleans your teeth?

There have been some studies conducted that suggest that chewing gum, as long as it is sugar-free, after snacks and meals can aid in rinsing off food debris and neutralising the acids that are released by the bacteria found in plaque.  This is beneficial as these acids are harmful to the enamel of your teeth.

Chewing the gum can stimulate ten times more than the normal rate of saliva production which can also help to rid the mouth of bacteria, as saliva is a naturally occurring component that contributes to oral health and can help to wash away any harmful bacteria. However, chewing gum should not be used as a replacement for flossing and brushing.