Dental Health Week 2024 focuses on the importance of gum health
Each year, the Australian Dental Association (ADA) runs Dental Health Week (DHW) at the beginning of August to focus on a specific aspect of a person’s dental health. In 2024, the ADA’s campaign looks into the importance of taking care of our gums as a vital step to “keep your teeth and smile for life”. The campaign aims to throw light on prevention and detection of gum disease. At the Limitless Dental clinic, we regularly discuss the importance of gum health and risk factors associated with gum disease with each of our patients, regardless of age.
Gum disease is often misunderstood as a minor health concern. However, the mouth is the gateway to your overall health and your daily oral hygiene habits have more of an effect on your body than most people realise. The relationship between your gums and your teeth is relatively well-known. The gums hold your teeth in place, so when inflammation of the gums from buildup of plaque is left untreated, it will eventually erode the stability of your teeth. Conversely, tooth decay can also spread bacteria to the gums and lead to gum disease if not treated (or prevented).
In last year’s DHW, the campaign looked at the connection between the mind, body and mouth. Systemic health issues such as diabetes, heart disease and inflammatory bowel diseases can influence the onset of oral diseases. However, research and studies have shown that the reverse is also observed, where inflammation of teeth and gums can also lead to the onset of diseases in other parts of the body.
Below are some common misconceptions about gum disease.
Common myths about gum disease
- Bleeding gums is normal and nothing to bat an eye about – this could not be further from the truth! Healthy gums do not bleed when you floss or when you brush. Bleeding from the gums is often an early sign of gum disease. Gum disease often silently progresses without any obvious symptoms such as pain. So when you see blood when you floss your teeth or when you pull your toothbrush away, don’t dismiss it – book an appointment with your dentist to get it checked.
- Gum disease is only caused by poor dental hygiene – while this is a significant factor of developing gum disease, other things can come into play. Lifestyle factors such as smoking increase the likelihood of damage and inflammation to the teeth and gums, which in turn make them susceptible to gum disease. Genetics can also play a role, as do hormonal changes during pregnancy. Regardless of these factors, regular check ups with your dentist will mean small adverse changes to your gums can be picked up earlier.
- Gum disease is irreversible once you have it – while advanced instances of gum disease (when gingivitis progresses to periodontitis) can cause irreversible damage, most cases can be effectively treated. Deep cleaning of the teeth can remove bacteria that might be residing along the roots below the gum line. If periodontitis is difficult to treat, you may be referred to a specialist for treatment. Early detection of gum disease is key to slowing or halting the advance of inflammation to your gums and teeth!
- Gum disease only affects the gums and teeth – there’s more evidence now that gum disease can lead to detrimental effects on other parts of your body. Recent research shows that gum disease can increase the risk of other seemingly unrelated health conditions. Persistent inflammation in the gums can lead to bacteria traveling elsewhere in the body.
Gum health has never been more important in maintaining your overall health. If you have any concerns about your gums, please book your next appointment with Limitless Dental!
