Gum disease is one of the most common oral health problems in the UK. It occurs when the gums become sore and inflamed due to a buildup of bacteria on the teeth. If the bacteria is not removed, bacterial toxins that are released can lead to break down of the supporting structures that hold the teeth into the jaw, such as the bone itself. In the worst cases, teeth can become loose and fall out as a result of gum disease. Thankfully, there are simple ways to get gum disease under control.
Gum disease starts with a buildup of plaque on the teeth. Plaque contains bacteria and if it is not removed by regular toothbrushing, the bacteria will thrive and this can lead to sore and inflamed gums. To combat gum disease, we recommend regular dental hygienist cleanings to help keep your teeth free from plaque buildup.
Genetic factors, lifestyle choices and oral health habits will all impact the likelihood of developing gum disease. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss, so it’s important to get it under control quickly. Treatment often begins with a trip to our dental hygienist team. They will assess the cause of your problem and provide a comprehensive deep cleaning. We would then recommend follow-up visits to monitor the progression and ensure the gum disease is under control.
Getting your gum disease under control offers a number of benefits. First, it will help to protect your teeth from the risk of coming loose. It will also help to freshen your breath, as one of the symptoms of gum disease is bad breath. It will also improve the appearance of your smile, as your gums will no longer be red and inflamed. And finally, it can also help you to prepare for other restorative and cosmetic treatments such as dental implants.
Often the first sign of gum disease will be blood in your mouth when you brush your teeth. You might also notice your gums appear red, swollen and tender. Some patients may find the first time they notice a problem is when their teeth become loose. And finally, you might notice a strange taste in your mouth or persistent bad breath.
We wouldn’t recommend ignoring the signs of gum disease. If left to advance, this treatment can lead to pain and tooth loss. It is very easy to treat, and there are also many at-home steps you can try to limit the likelihood of developing gum disease. This includes regular brushing and flossing and using specialist mouthwashes.
Whilst there is no absolute cure, gum disease is very treatable, provided you can follow your dentist’s instructions at home. If you do not care for your teeth at home, it’s likely that gum disease will continue to return.
