Treatment of gum disease (periodontitis) can be both simple and complicated depending on how serious the situation is.
The simplest form of gum disease is gingivitis. This is when the gums are swollen, red and bleed easily. If this is left untreated it can develop into a more serious gum disease called periodontitis.
Periodontitis is a bacterial disease that attacks the attachment of the teeth. In the worst case scenario the tooth can fall out. The disease is common in adults after the age of 35 and is the most common cause of tooth loss in Australians older than 45.
The treatment of the disease demands systematic, professional removal of calculus (tartar) by a dentist or oral health therapist. This needs to be combined with thorough and regular cleaning of the teeth at home.
