GUM TREATMENT: Your guide to good gums.
When it comes to good mouth health, looking after your gums is just as important as looking after your teeth.
In fact, gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss. And that’s because inflamed gums can eventually affect the bones supporting your teeth, causing them to become loose, fall out or have to be extracted.
Common Gum Diseases
Gingivitis is ‘inflammation of the gums’, causing them to become red and swollen and to bleed when brushed.
Periodontal disease can develop from Gingivitis and affects the tissues supporting the teeth. As the disease progresses, the bone anchoring the teeth is lost and the teeth become loose.
Preventing Damage from Gum Disease
It’s easy – brush every day and floss frequently.
All gum disease is caused by plaque – the film of bacteria that forms on the tooth surface, every day.
Just by brushing morning and night, you’re giving your teeth the best protection against gum disease.
And then at every check up your dentist and hygienist will help even more by monitoring your periodontal condition.
We can see if your gums are in good shape, give advice on lifestyle choices such as smoking that can make gum disease worse, or recommend a visit to one of our hygienists to maintain good gum health.
It’s worth knowing that gum disease has been linked to more serious health conditions such as diabetes, strokes, cardiovascular disease, poor pregnancy outcomes and even dementia. So looking after your gums may help to improve your general health in the longer term.