Gum disease risk quiz
Answer 20 quick questions about your oral hygiene and health history to get a sense of your gum disease risk. This is a general guide, not a diagnosis, so talk to one of our dentists about your results.
How often do you brush your teeth?
Do you use fluoridated toothpaste when you brush your teeth?
Do you clean your teeth with dental floss or an interproximal brush?
How often do you floss your teeth?
How often do you visit your dentist?
Do you have sealants on your teeth?
When was the last time you had a cavity filled?
Do you wear dental braces or partial dentures?
How often do you eat sugary foods (lollies, dried fruit, flavoured yoghurt, cakes, juice, soft drink)?
Do you use products with xylitol?
Do your gums bleed when flossing or brushing?
Are your gums receding?
Are you pregnant?
Do you have diabetes?
Have you been diagnosed with high blood pressure, heart disease or osteoporosis?
Do you smoke or chew tobacco?
Do you take prescription or over-the-counter medications?
Have you lost a tooth because of decay or gum disease?
Do any of your teeth feel loose?
Have you been diagnosed with or treated for periodontal disease in the past?
Your risk is low
This means you have a lower chance of developing gum disease. Keep committing to your daily oral hygiene routine: brush and floss at least twice a day, cut back on sugary food and drink, and visit your dentist regularly for a check-up and clean.
Being aware of your risk and protective factors is part of good oral health. Tell your dentist about your answers, and use them to start a conversation about any areas of risk. Keep in mind that your risk of gum disease can change over time.
You have a number of risk factors
Schedule an appointment with your dentist to discuss your areas of risk and what you can do about them. Improving your dental care at home, with guidance on the most effective way to brush and floss, can help reverse or manage early gum disease if you act on it now.
Being aware of your risk and protective factors is part of good oral health. Tell your dentist about your answers, and use them to start a conversation about any areas of risk. Keep in mind that your risk of gum disease can change over time.
Your risk is high
Strengthen your oral hygiene routine at home: brush and floss daily, and consider other tools such as mouthwash, a soft-bristled toothbrush or interdental brushes. Eating a healthy diet and visiting your dentist regularly also help.
Discuss this result with your dentist so they can help prevent or manage gum disease in your mouth.