Healthy gums, healthy teeth: a guide to gum disease
Quick answer
Gum disease is inflammation of the tissues that support your teeth. In its early stage (gingivitis) it is often reversible with good home care and professional cleaning. If it progresses to periodontitis, it can affect the bone around the teeth and needs ongoing management. Common signs include bleeding, swollen or receding gums and persistent bad breath.
Why gum health matters
Your gums and the bone beneath them hold your teeth in place. When they're healthy, they form a tight seal around each tooth. When plaque builds up along the gum line, the body responds with inflammation, and over time that can loosen the support around teeth. Healthy gums are also the foundation for crowns, bridges, veneers and implants to last.
Gingivitis vs periodontitis: what's the difference?
Gingivitis is the early stage. Gums may look red, feel tender or bleed when you brush or floss. It can often be reversed with better cleaning at home and a professional clean.
Periodontitis is more advanced. Pockets form between the gums and teeth, and the supporting bone can be lost. It can't be reversed, but it can usually be managed to help keep your teeth for longer.
Signs of gum disease to look out for
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Bad breath or a bad taste that doesn't go away
- Gums pulling back from the teeth (recession)
- Teeth that feel loose or have started to move
Gum disease can develop without pain, which is why regular check-ups matter even if everything feels fine.
What increases your risk?
Plaque is the main cause, but some factors make gum disease more likely, including smoking and vaping, diabetes, hormonal changes such as pregnancy, some medications, stress and family history. Research has also found links between gum disease and broader health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease, which is one more reason to look after your gums.
How our team looks after your gums
At every check-up, your CBD Dental dentist checks your gums for early signs of disease, and we use digital X-rays and scans when needed to monitor changes over time. Depending on what we find, care may include:
- A professional clean with one of our hygienists
- Deeper cleaning below the gum line, using local anaesthetic where needed for comfort
- A personalised home-care plan and tools that suit your mouth
- More frequent maintenance visits to keep things stable
- Referral to a registered specialist periodontist for more complex cases
We take the time to explain what we see, show you on screen where helpful, and talk through your options before any treatment begins.
Noticed bleeding or tender gums?
Book a check-up at CBD Dental, 74 Castlereagh St, online or on (02) 9221 2453.
Frequently asked questions
Gingivitis, the early stage, is often reversible with good home care and professional cleaning. Periodontitis can't be reversed, but it can usually be managed with ongoing care.
Everyone's experience is different. We can use local anaesthetic to keep you comfortable, you can take breaks whenever you need, and we can discuss sedation options if you feel anxious.
Many people can have their gum health managed by their dentist and hygienist. If your situation is more complex, we'll discuss a referral to a registered specialist periodontist.