In South Africa, gum disease ranks second only to the common cold in terms of prevalence, with an estimated 90% of South Africans experiencing it at some point. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), oral diseases are among the most common noncommunicable diseases globally, affecting an estimated 3.5 billion people. The burden is increasing, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Why does it matter? Research has linked gum disease to a range of serious health issues including Alzheimer’s, cardiovascular disease and infertility. Better oral health has been shown to improve outcomes for pregnant women and people suffering from arthritis, diabetes and other systemic diseases.
A Hidden Danger
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According to Dirna Grobbelaar, Oral Hygiene Advisor for Ivohealth and a member of the Oral Hygienists Association of South Africa (OHASA) most people don’t realise they have gum disease. “Although the symptoms can be subtle, gum disease is a serious condition that can precipitate a cascade of other health issues.”
Visible signs include redness, swelling or bleeding gums. “Bleeding gums are never ‘normal’. You may attribute bleeding gums to using the ‘wrong’ brush or floss; in most cases, bleeding gums indicate gingivitis, the early form of gum disease.”
Fortunately, gingivitis can be treated and is reversible. If untreated, it can develop into a more serious form of gum disease – periodontitis – which can lead to bone and tooth loss. “Gum disease is best prevented and the earlier you intervene the better,” says Grobbelaar.
What’s Your Risk of Gum Disease?
Some people are at higher risk of developing gum disease. This includes diabetics, anyone who experiences ‘dry mouth’ (medically known as xerostomia) and people with a family history of oral issues. “Gum disease can run in families. If your parents or siblings have been diagnosed with gingivitis or periodontitis, you might have a higher risk of developing it too,” explains Grobbelaar.
“It’s important to be aware of your family history and take extra care with your oral hygiene. Regular dental check-ups can help catch early signs of gum issues.”
Prevention Strategies
Preventing gum disease involves eating a balanced diet and maintaining an effective daily oral care routine.
“Even the best brusher can miss areas. In addition to daily oral care, have a professional clean, ideally every six months, to remove any plaque or tartar you have missed.” Grobbelaar recommends EMS Guided Biofilm Therapy®, a revolutionary oral hygiene treatment from Switzerland that is gentler and more effective than traditional methods. Find your nearest EMS Guided Biofilm Therapy® practice here.
Treating Gum Disease at Home
If caught early, you may be able to ‘treat’ gum disease at home. Grobbelaar says if you notice any sensitivity or bleeding follow a meticulous oral hygiene routine for a week, which involves.
Brush twice a day for at least 2 minutes each time. Use a soft brush with a small head, like the GUM Pro Sensitive Ultra Soft, and a treatment toothpaste, like GUM Paroex Intensive Action toothpaste.
Clean between the teeth daily, using floss, an interdental brush or Soft-Picks. If you find flossing too difficult, try an oral irrigator. Unsure what’s best for you? Here’s a handy guide to interdental tools.
Lastly, rinse with an alcohol-free mouthwash like GUM Paroex Intensive Action to help reduce plaque and soothe sensitive and irritated gums.
Follow this routine for five to seven days. If you continue to experience bleeding or sensitivity, see your dentist.
How Healthy Are Your Gums?
Because it’s difficult for non-dental professionals to spot the signs of gum disease, Grobbelaar and Ivohealth have developed a quick online quiz – the #HealthyGUMCheck – to provide personalised, practical help.
Take the #HealthyGUMCheck to quickly assess your gum health, discover early indicators of disease and receive expert advice from a trusted oral health professional. In September, National Oral Health Month, you also get the chance to win an EMS Guided Biofilm Therapy® treatment (worth R1,600) or a #HealthyGUMEssentials kit packed with all the premium GUM oral care products you need for a healthy smile.
You’ll find the #HealthyGUMCheck at https://bit.ly/HealthyGUMCheck.
For further advice dive into the guide to bleeding gums on the Ivohealth website. For personalised, professional advice speak to your dentist.
LINKS
Website: https://ivohealth.co.za/
#HealthyGUMCheck quiz – https://bit.ly/HealthyGUMCheck
Facebook: @ivohealth; @GUMSouthAfrica
Instagram: @ivohealth; @GUMSouthAfrica
TikTok: @ivohealth
