The symptoms of gum disease can be mild, and often overlooked, which is why it is important to visit us for your regular check up appointments and hygiene care. We can spot and treat gum disease before it becomes a more complex issue, keeping your oral health on track.
Gum disease describes swelling, soreness or infection of the tissues supporting the teeth. There are two main forms of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease, and can cause red, swollen and inflamed gums that often bleed when brushed. You may also have a bad taste in your mouth or find you develop bad breath. This stage can be reversed with tailored hygiene treatment.
If left untreated, gingivitis can progress into periodontal disease, a more serious condition. This affects the tissues supporting your teeth, causing your gums to separate from the teeth and create pockets that are susceptible to infection. Over time, periodontitis begins to affect your bone and can cause your teeth to become loose or even fall out.
All gum diseases are caused by plaque. Plaque is a film of bacteria which forms on the surface of the teeth and gums every day. Many of the bacteria in plaque are completely harmless, but there are some that have been shown to be the main cause of gum disease. To prevent and treat gum disease, you need to make sure you remove all the plaque from your teeth every day. This is done by brushing and flossing.
If gum disease is left for a long time, treatment can become more difficult. Please get in touch with us if you are concerned about your gum health.
