Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums caused by plaque bacteria at the gum line. The gums are red, swollen and bleed on brushing.

Which factors increase the risk of periodontal disease?

Tobacco smoking and poorly controlled diabetes greatly increase the risk. Poor oral hygiene, stress and a family history also contribute.

How is periodontal disease treated?

A dentist or hygienist removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line by scaling and root planing. Better daily cleaning is essential, and severe cases may need surgery.

How can periodontal disease be prevented?

Plaque is removed by brushing twice a day and cleaning between the teeth. A smoke-free lifestyle and regular professional cleaning also prevent it.

CCEA A-Level Life and Health Sciences 0008

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Oral Health and DentistryDouble Award

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Oral Health and Dentistry

Periodontal disease, tooth loss and dental antibiotics

3 things to know
A2 7

Overview

Gingivitis and periodontitis, risk factors, treatment and prevention, the effects of tooth loss on health, and amoxicillin, cephalexin and clindamycin in dentistry.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

Your recallNot started

Key term

What is gingivitis?

Key term

How does periodontal disease develop from gingivitis?

Key term

Why is gingivitis reversible but periodontitis is not?

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1
What is gingivitis?
Model answer
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums caused by plaque bacteria at the gum line. The gums are red, swollen and bleed on brushing.
2
How does periodontal disease develop from gingivitis?
Model answer
Untreated inflammation spreads below the gum line and destroys the tissues attaching the tooth. Pockets form between tooth and gum, bone is lost and the tooth loosens.
3
Why is gingivitis reversible but periodontitis is not?
Model answer
Gingivitis affects only the gum and clears when plaque is removed. Periodontitis destroys bone and ligament, which do not fully grow back.
4
Which factors increase the risk of periodontal disease?
Model answer
Tobacco smoking and poorly controlled diabetes greatly increase the risk. Poor oral hygiene, stress and a family history also contribute.
5
How is periodontal disease treated?
Model answer
A dentist or hygienist removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line by scaling and root planing. Better daily cleaning is essential, and severe cases may need surgery.
6
How can periodontal disease be prevented?
Model answer
Plaque is removed by brushing twice a day and cleaning between the teeth. A smoke-free lifestyle and regular professional cleaning also prevent it.

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