DENTAL PROBLEMS
Gum Disease
DENTAL DISEASES
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is a very common condition that affects a large percentage of the population. It is commonly due to an accumulation of plaque and calculus (or tartar) which acts as an irritant leading to inflammation of the gums and bone.
Signs of Gum Disease
- Bleeding, painful gums
- Red, swollen gums
- Loose teeth
- Bad breath
Risk Factors of Gum Disease
- Poor oral hygiene
- Smoking
- Family history
- Medical conditions e.g. diabetes, pregnancy
- Medications
- Poorly fitting dentures, fillings or other irritants to the gums
Stages of Gum Disease
Gingivitis
This is the early stage of gum disease when only the gums have been involved. Signs include bleeding and swelling of the gums without damage to the underlying bone.
Periodontitis
If gingivitis is not treated early and irritants remain for a prolonged duration inflammation may progress to the bone and result in irreversible bone loss. This can present as gums dropping from teeth, pockets forming between the gums and teeth, loose teeth, changes in position of teeth and pain on chewing.
Treatment
Since plaque and tartar accumulate on a regular basis, treatment and prevention of gum disease involves a combination of good daily oral hygiene and ongoing, regular professional cleans.
Recommended daily oral hygiene measures:
- Brush twice daily with a fluoridated toothpaste for 2 minutes
- Flossing or interdental brushes to clean in between teeth
Professional Cleans:
- Professional cleans are ideal at 6 monthly intervals in order to assess gum status and remove tartar. Some patients may require more frequent intervals if they have periodontitis or thicker amounts of plaque and tartar. At these appointments the gum levels will be measured to assess inflammation and bone loss, followed by cleaning with our specialised tools. Deep cleaning to remove tartar under the gums may be required where periodontal pockets and bone loss have occurred.
- If pocketing and inflammation don’t resolve over time, or if periodontitis has progressed to an advanced level, a referral to a gum specialist “periodontist” may be required.
BLACKBURN DENTAL GROUP
Book your dental health check
Get in touch to make an appointment with one of our friendly dentists. We can perform a thorough check-up and help answer any questions you may have about your oral health.