Gum disease is associated with swelling, soreness and bleeding of the tissues supporting the teeth. There are two forms
gingivitis -Inflammation causing bleeding and swelling of the gums-especially when brushing.
Periodontal disease -this is when the tissues deteriorate further and includes bone loss around the teeth so they become loose. This is how most people lose their teeth.
How is it caused?
Plaque builds up around the teeth and is a film of bacteria, some of which causes gum disease. It needs to be removed by regular brushing and flossing or it builds up into a hard substance called tartar or calculus which can then only be removed by the dentist or hygienist
As it develops slowly and painlessly a lot of people are unaware of how things are developing until they get loose teeth or pain due to an abscess so it is vital that regular examinations and measurements of the gums are made.
How do I know I have it?
Usually the gums will bleed when you brush or when eating. Often you will have bad breath, but unless someone tells you , you may be unaware of this.
If you are a smoker you may not notice any bleeding due to the poor blood supply to the gums that occurs with smoking
Smoking and Gum Disease
Smoking usually makes gum disease worse. More plaque tends to build up and, because the tissues tend to be starved of oxygen they don’t heal as rapidly.
How can I stop it ?
Regular brushing and flossing and sometimes a mouth rinse to remove the plaque from around the teeth and soft tissues
Visit Springs Dental Studio for regular examination, care and review of your mouth
Visit our hygienist- for regular cleaning and prevention regime to help care for your teeth and gums
What will you do?
When you come for a check-up, our Dentists will take an initial measurement of your gums to assess their condition. This will show any bleeding, inflammation or bone loss that may exist.
Then they will devise a treatment plan to prevent the progress of the disease.
Often they will refer you to our hygienist who specialises in providing preventive measures to reduce and sometimes halt the progress of gum disease.
Our hygienist can:-
take further measurements of the bone loss around each tooth so she can monitor improvements
disclose the teeth and gums so you can see where the plaque is building up
take photos and measurements of the plaque and calculus deposits to monitor improvements
show you the best way to brush and which type of toothbrush to use
How to floss and use any other aids to get in between the teeth or any other awkward places e.g. under bridges
remove any calculus or tartar that is stuck to the teeth
Apply any varnishes that are needed for any sensitive areas
show you how to clean the soft tissues around and under dentures
