Gum Disease

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Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is one of the leading causes of tooth loss among adults and can affect more than just our oral health. In fact, dental associations from across the globe have stated that there is sufficient evidence to prove that bacteria in the mouth (associated with gum disease) may be linked to heart disease, artery blockages and even stroke.

Gum Disease is an infection in the gums surrounding the teeth and is usually split into two major stages - Gingivitis and Periodontitis (see below). The bacteria in the plaque produces acids and other toxins that can destroy bone and gum tissue over a period of time.

Brushing your teeth helps to thoroughly remove plaque from the surface before it is able to harden into a thick deposit called tartar which, if allowed to remain on the teeth and below the gum-line, can lead to chronic infection and inflammation. The only available method in removing tartar is to have your teeth professionally cleaned at your dental office, which can prove costly.

Additionally, flossing is also hugely beneficial as it can remove plaque from in between your teeth – where a toothbrush can’t reach.

Gingivitis: Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and can be treated and reversed if diagnosed early. The signs and symptoms are red, swollen and puffy gums that bleed easily and, if not treated at an early stage, can lead to Periodontitis.

Periodontitis: This is the more serious and advanced stage of gum disease which includes bone loss and is also irrepairable. The gum tissue and bone surrounding the teeth could become seriously damaged, causing the teeth affected to become loose and fall out as a result.

Gum disease is extremely common in the UK and affects 3 out of every 4 adults over the age of 35, while more than half of teenagers also have some form of gum disease. One of the biggest contributors to the development of gum diseases is smoking, which causes 50% of all gum disease cases in Britain .

Gum Disease Signs and Symptoms

• Frequent bad breath or bad taste in your mouth
• Red, tender and / or swollen gums
• Your gums bleed easily
• Gums pulling away from your teeth
• Loose teeth or teeth that are starting to separate
• Change in your bite or in the way your teeth fit together
• The fit of your partial dentures has changed.
  
  

* If you have noticed any of these signs or symptoms, you should contact your dentist to discuss treatment options at once.

Gum Disease Risk Factors

If you have or do one of the following you could be at risk from gum disease:

• Diabetes
• Tobacco use
• Certain medication usage
• Pregnancy
• Defective fillings
• Poor fitting bridges
• Poor oral hygiene / Crooked teeth
• Oral Contraceptives

 

How to prevent Gum Disease developing

• Make sure you brush your teeth at least twice a day for a minimum of two minutes each.
• Use a fluoride toothpaste as fluoride helps to prevent decay.
• Floss your teeth on a daily basis. Flossing is the only way to remove plaque from in between your teeth that a toothbrush can’t get to.
• Use an antimicrobial mouth rinse, which provides extra help in controlling plaque.
• Visit your dentist for regular check ups – at least twice a year.
  

It is important to remember that while gum disease is a very serious dental condition, it can be prevented if it is diagnosed in the early stages. Regular dental check ups are a key factor in early detection of gum disease as well as detecting oral cancer - another serious dental condition that can also prove fatal.