Periodontal disease or gum disease is one of the most common oral diseases found globally. It has been estimated that at least 80% of the adult populations have some form of gum disease. Periodontics deals with the diagnosis, prevention and control of periodontal diseases.

One of the most obvious sign of periodontal disease is bleeding gums. Other signs of periodontal disease which may be present are red and swollen gums, loose teeth, bad breath, periodontal pockets, drifting of teeth may occur during the more advanced stage of the disease. As periodontal disease is usually painless, an individual may not be aware he has periodontal disease until the condition has become quite serious.

Signs of gum disease

The main cause of periodontal disease is bacterial plaque. Bacterial plaque is made up of different types of bacteria and their by-products which by virtue of their toxicity may cause damage to the gums and teeth if allowed to accumulate for a sufficient length of time. It is difficult to see plaque by the naked eye unless the palque has become very thick. The picture below shows plaque stained by a dye to make it easier for the individual to detect the presence of plaque.

Plaque stained by a dye

Periodontal treatment which a dentist may carry out to manage periodontal disease include oral hygiene education and scaling (removal of calcified deposits or calculus); more severe problems may involve root planing (cleaning of deposits on root surfaces well below the gums) and less frequently periodontal surgery.

Removal of calculus

The key factor which determines the success of all forms of periodontal treatment is effective oral hygiene by the individual at home: effective toothbrushing and flossing or use of special devices to clean between the teeth. The best philosophy in the control of gum disease is still "Preventive is better than cure".

Tooth brushing

Use of dental floss

Contributed by A/Prof Lim Lum Peng

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