What is gum disease?

Gum disease describes swelling, soreness or infection of the tissues supporting the teeth. There are two main forms of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontal disease.

What is gingivitis?

Gingivitis means inflammation of the gums. This is when the gums around the teeth become very red and swollen. Often the swollen gums bleed when they are brushed during cleaning.

What is periodontits?

Long-standing gingivitis can turn into periodontal disease. There are a number of types of periodontal disease and they all affect the tissues supporting the teeth. As the disease gets worse the bone anchoring the teeth in the jaw is lost, making the teeth loose. If this is not treated, the teeth may eventually fall out. In fact, more teeth are lost through periodontal disease than through tooth decay.

What are the signs?

• Red, swollen gums
• Bleeding gums
• Bad breath
• Bad taste
• Gum recession
• Teeth drifting
• Loose teeth

What are the causes?

All gum disease is 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 gum disease, you need to make sure you

remove all the plaque from your teeth every day.

How we can help?

Our hygienists are specialists in the treatment of gum disease and maintaining gum health. They will be able to gently remove the plaque deposits that you cannot reach over a number of visits. They will provide comprehensive advice and show you techniques to remove the plaque effectively at home to stabalise any progression in the disease process. This will only be achieved through regular attendance.

Our membership plans encourage regular visits as required to prevent and treat gum disease.