Plaque is a transparent and sticky film made up of many bacteria which build up on the surface of your teeth. When the bacteria in plaque interact with sugar and starch from food and drinks, they produce acid that can harm the health of our gums and teeth. This can result in gum disease and tooth decay. 

What is periodontal disease, and what can happen if untreated?

Periodontal disease is a more severe form of gum disease which destroys the soft tissue and jawbone that hold the teeth in place. If not treated promptly, it can result in tooth loss. In the longer term, periodontal disease can cause even more serious health problems, such as increasing your risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and even Alzheimer’s. Periodontal disease affects 47.2% of adults aged 30 years and older and 70.1% of adults 65 years and older according to CDC data.

Symptoms or signs of periodontal disease can include:

  • Bleeding on flossing or brushing
    • Red or purple gums.
    • Swollen or tender gums
  • Gum recession or becoming “long in the tooth”.
    • Teeth feeling ‘furry’
  • Spaces developing between teeth
    • More food getting caught between your teeth
  • Persistent bad breath

The good news is that, if managed correctly, you can restore the health of your gums. Regular professional cleaning, correct brushing, flossing and a healthy diet all help to prevent the onset or progression of oral diseases. Excellent oral hygiene must be maintained daily so that the disease does not recur.

Periodontal disease will not resolve on its own without professional help and will continue to progress the longer it remains.

A regular examination with one of our amazing and gentle hygienists is the first step in preventing, treating and maintaining the health of your mouth.

Call (03) 5907 5942 to request an appointment at the practice conveniently located in Red Hill, VIC, at 135 Shoreham Road in Red Hill. 

We are proud to serve the Mornington Peninsula; Red Hill, Red Hill South, Shoreham, Arthurs Seat, Main Ridge, Point Leo, Merricks, Merricks North, Somers, Tuerong, Boneo, Flinders, Cape Schanck, McCrae, Sorrento, Portsea, St Andrews, St Andrews Beach, Balnarring, Balnarring Beach, Blairgowrie, Fingal, Dromana, Moorooduc, Safety Beach, Mount Martha, Capel Sound, Tyabb, Tootgarook, Crib Point, Cerberus, Hastings, Rosebud, Rye, Mornington, Frankston South and Mornington