Periodontics
Detecting Gum Disease and Preventing Tooth Loss
You May Have Gum Disease Without Being Aware
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is one of the most wide-spread diseases across the world and is generally considered to be the leading cause of tooth loss. It is usually pain-free and can be easily missed particularly in the early stages, meaning that many people will have gum disease without even being aware of it.
Healthy gums should be pink and firm. They shouldn’t be tender when you brush your teeth. If you are experiencing any symptoms or changes in your teeth or gums that are causing you concern, contact us for advice and help.
Recognise the Signs of Gum Disease
There are many different classes of periodontal disease. Depending on the extent of the infection, symptoms can vary. However, the most common symptoms include:
Bleeding gums when brushing or eating
Red, swollen gums
Bad breath
Spaces appearing between teeth
Loose teeth or teeth moving position in the mouth
Receding gums
Sensitivity to cold or hot foods and drinks
It’s important not to overlook bleeding, sore or inflamed gums, or any abnormalities in your teeth. If you recognise any of these symptoms contact us for advice and diagnosis. The earlier you start hygiene and periodontal care, the better the outcome.
Gingivitis and Periodontitis
Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that can be reversed by removing plaque build-up and maintaining effective oral health at home. Gingivitis treatment is essential to ensuring your bacterial infection does not develop into periodontitis.
Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and destroys the bone that supports your teeth. This can cause teeth to loosen or lead to tooth loss.
Periodontitis can also have far-reaching consequences. There is increasing evidence to suggest strong links between periodontal infection and serious health and inflammatory conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Treatment and Prevention of Gum Disease
Getting treatment early can help save teeth that are at risk from gum disease and other conditions.
The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis can be reversed with early detection and treatment including professional cleaning and a good hygiene routine.
Periodontal disease is not curable, but it can be controlled and managed with proper expert care. The type of treatment and treatment plan recommended by our Periodontal and hygiene team will depend on the stage of gum disease.
Periodontics & Gum Disease FAQs
How does gum disease develop?
Gum disease is caused by bacteria and foodstuffs that collect at the gum line as dental plaque (often soft, sticky and whitish or yellow). If plaque is not properly and regularly cleaned, the gum starts to come away from the tooth, forming pockets and the plaque grows down below the gum line. Over time, and if advice is not sought from a dental professional, the bone supporting the teeth can be destroyed, the gums shrink and eventually the teeth become wobbly and fall out.
Who can suffer from gum disease?
Most people can suffer with mild levels of gum disease, but some people are more susceptible to aggressive forms. Severe gum disease, especially if you have it at a young age, can run in families.
There are a few factors that put people at higher risk of getting severe gum disease. These include:
Diabetes (especially if poorly controlled)
Smoking (possibly including e-cigarettes)
Stress
Poor diet which is lacking in vitamins and minerals
Obesity
Certain medications
When you make an appointment to see a member of our team, please do talk to them about any concerns you have. It’s important that you also share with the dentist or hygienist any problems with your health and about any tablets or medicines you are taking. Some medical conditions may change the way our team manages your disease, and some medication may change the appearance of your gums.
How can I prevent gum disease from occurring?
Attend regular dental examinations and hygienist visits as recommended by your dentist
Brush the gum line and each tooth twice daily. Brush for at least 2 minutes. We can advise you on the most appropriate toothbrush and demonstrate the correct brushing techniques
Clean daily between the teeth before brushing, using floss in tight spaces and interdental brushes for larger spaces
Use a fluoridated toothpaste with at least 1350ppm Fluoride, spit out after brushing and do not rinse to maintain the fluoride concentration
Do not smoke
Reduce consumption and frequency of sugary foods and drinks. Focus on a balanced diet to make sure your teeth and gums are getting the nutrients that they need to remain healthy
Can gum disease run in the family?
Some people are more susceptible to aggressive forms of gum disease, and it can also run in families. This does not mean it is inevitable, but it is likely that any extra care you take in your oral care routine will make a big difference going forwards.
Knowing whether gum disease runs in your family will give you more control over your oral health. If gum disease does run in your family, do let our team know and they will plan your maintenance and treatment accordingly, as well as provide you with additional guidance on how to keep your mouth and teeth healthy.
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