Gum Disease Treatment

Keeping your gums in shape

It is important to protect your mouth against gum disease. Keep in mind that healthy gums don’t bleed. You are the key player on the hygiene team. If you don’t do the essential daily brushing and flossing, the rest of your dental team (the dentist and hygienist) is playing short-handed. And sometimes, stubborn plaque and bacteria will still require some new maintenance techniques for battling gum infection.

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Why might I be susceptible to gum disease?

Periodontal disease is the number one cause of tooth loss amongst adults. This is because a certain number of people (15-20%) have immune systems that overreact to the bad bacteria in their mouths. When this overreaction occurs, the immune system attacks and breaks down the bone and tissue that surround the tooth. This destruction is not predictable and can occur sporadically. None of us knows if we are part of this 15-20% because we can’t usually feel or notice the onset of gum and bone (periodontal) disease. Both adults and children should be routinely checked for gum disease.

Are you at high risk of gum disease?

Smoking – Numerous studies have shown that smokers have more gum disease. Smokers have increased levels of tartar in the mouth, and experience more tissue irritation, which makes their gums more susceptible to disease. Smokers have more bone loss and heal less quickly than non-smokers.
Stress – When our immune system is stressed it is difficult to fight off the bacteria that cause gum infections.
Dental neglect – Avoiding the dentist can put you at risk of contracting diseases of the mouth, teeth and gums.
Heart disease – Gum inflammation and bacteria in gum disease have been linked to heart disease.
Diabetes – People with diabetes are more likely to have gum disease than others, and gum disease makes it more difficult for diabetics to control their blood sugar.
Genetics – People with a family history of gum disease are more likely to develop it themselves.
Hormonal changes – Sometimes hormonal changes can increase the risk of gum disease.

Frequently asked questions

: The majority of the population in the UK suffer from some form of gum disease, which is a significant cause of tooth loss. Gingivitis and periodontitis are the two main forms of this disease. You can check for early signs of gum disease when you are brushing your teeth. If there is blood on your toothbrush or in the water when you are rinsing your mouth, this may indicate that you have a gum problem. Also, your gums may bleed when eating and your breath may become unpleasant. You should consult your dentist or hygienist to discuss ways of improving your gum health.
: Plaque and hard deposits of tartar are the main causes of gum disease. The most common reason for gum disease is that people do not clean their teeth and gums as often or as thoroughly as they should, so it is essential that you maintain a good dental care routine to remove all of the plaque from your teeth. However, there are factors that will mean that some people are more likely to get gum disease, such as smoking, drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, drugs and certain medicines, hormonal changes, and some diseases.
: Gingivitis is a term used to describe the inflammation of gums. It is the first stage of gum disease, where the gums become red and swollen and may bleed when brushing your teeth. Gingivitis can be reversed with effective oral hygiene treatment.
: Periodontitis is a deeper form of gum disease that affects the bone supporting the teeth. Left untreated, periodontitis may eventually result in teeth having to be extracted, as some of the bone is lost and teeth become loose. You can prevent periodontal disease from getting worse by maintaining a good dental care routine and making regular visits to your dentist or hygienist.
: If you think you have gum disease, you should visit your dentist for an examination. They will check your teeth and gums and create a bespoke treatment plan. Usually, this will involve illustrating how to clean your teeth effectively in order to remove all of the plaque.
: Dentists recommend using a small-headed toothbrush with ’rounded’ bristles, so that it doesn’t cause any damage to your gums. Brushing alone will not remove all the plaque from in between your teeth. Using dental floss or interdental brushes is also extremely useful. Your dentist or hygienist is best placed to advise you on which cleaning methods are best for you.
: Yes, gum diseases can be treated and managed, but complete cure depends on the severity of the condition and individual oral health practices. Early stages of gum disease, such as gingivitis, can often be reversed with proper oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings. However, more advanced stages like periodontitis may require more intensive treatments, such as scaling and root planing, antibiotics, or in severe cases, surgical intervention. It’s crucial to address gum disease promptly, as untreated cases can lead to complications. Regular dental check-ups and maintaining good oral hygiene are essential for preventing and managing gum diseases.
: The most effective way to treat gum disease involves a combination of professional dental interventions and consistent at-home oral care. Dental cleanings, such as scaling and root planing, are commonly used to remove plaque and tartar buildup below the gumline. Antibiotics may be prescribed to control bacterial infection. Additionally, maintaining a rigorous oral hygiene routine, including regular brushing, flossing, and using an antiseptic mouthwash, is crucial for managing gum disease. Regular dental check-ups also play a key role in monitoring and managing gum disease effectively.

Gum Disease Treatment

Keeping your gums in shape

Why might I be susceptible to gum disease?

Are you at high risk of gum disease?

Frequently asked questions

Getting in touch

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