Gum Health Overview: Gum Inflammation and Disease
Causes of periodontal disease
Whilst plaque is the leading cause of gum disease it is not the only causal factor for the progression of periodontitis.1
In 2017 the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) and European Federation of Periodontology (EFP) convened the World Workshop on the Classification of Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases and Conditions to create a consensus knowledge base to be promoted globally. The outputs from this workshop highlighted that “plaque is a major risk factor, and necessary pre-requisite for periodontitis and therefore management of gingivitis needs to be a primary prevention strategy for periodontitis”.2
Find out more about the causes of periodontal disease.
Impact on patient quality of life
Gum disease has both physical and emotional impacts, particularly as the condition progresses.3 Patients may ignore or put up with symptoms and can even create myths to rationalise the problem e.g. relating bleeding gums to over brushing.3
Find out more about the impact of gum disease and their views on the condition.
Diagnosis of gum disease
The 2017 World Workshop on the Classification of Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases and conditions recommended that periodontitis should be characterised by a new system of multi-dimensional staging and grading.4
Find out more about diagnosis of gum disease including screening methods.
Management of gum disease
The key to prevention of gum disease is effective daily plaque control through brushing and interdental cleaning. In addition, there are some risk factors such as smoking or diabetes which, through management, may impact disease progression.
Discover more about the first evidence-based treatment guidelines for periodontitis which was developed by the EFP to inform treatment around the world as part of the XVI European Workshop on Periodontology.5
Read more about periodontal disease
Patient lifestyle risk factors
Should we be looking for clues in a patient’s lifestyle to assess their risk for gum disease. Read our article to find out more.
The role of chlorhexidine in managing at risk patients
Could chlorhexidine mouthwash be a key tool in preventing the progression of periodontal disease for patients who are at risk? Read our article to find out more.
Supporting patient behaviour change
parodontax has been working with behaviour change professionals and patients to find out how – collectively – we can inspire the habits that improve gum health and help prevent gum disease.
