Fight plaque and bacteria build-up to maintain healthy gums with our gum hygiene treatment.
Dental plaque is the primary cause of gum disease in genetically susceptible individuals. Bacteria constantly forms on your teeth. Each person has millions of bacteria that live in their mouth, which when combined with saliva, food debris, and other particles creates plaque: a sticky substance that collects near the gum line. The bacteria found in plaque produce toxins or poisons that irritate the gums and may eventually cause inflammation – marked by redness, swelling and bleeding tissue. If this discomfort persists, the gums separate from the teeth, causing pockets to form. The supporting gum tissue and bone that keeps teeth in place weaken as periodontal diseases develop. If left unchecked, it may result in tooth loss.
If plaque is not removed, it will turn into tartar. Tartar can only be removed by a professional cleaning at your dentist’s office.
More teeth are lost to gum disease in adults over 35, than from cavities. Three out of four adults will experience this at some point in their life.
Here are some of the most common signs of gum disease. Do be aware that some of these signs may only become apparent towards the later stages:
Bleeding Gums – If your gums are healthy, they shouldn’t bleed. If you see blood, it means there is inflammation and destruction of the gums going on. Try flossing to see if there really is bleeding; remember that smoking can reduce blood flow to the gums so bleeding may not be apparent if you smoke.
Bad Breath – gum disease is the number one cause of bad breath. There are a large amount of nasty bacteria that sit on your teeth, which excrete volatile sulphur compounds – this smells incredibly foul.
Loose Teeth – If you have noticed your teeth getting looser, this is happening in the late stages of gum disease. Get to your dentist right away to stop it from progressing.
Drifting Teeth – The supporting structures of the teeth, like gums, are essential to keeping them secure. When these structures break down from disease, it allows room for movement and gaps in your smile. Additionally, you may start to notice teeth that protrude more than usual.
Gum Recession – The gums shrink away, revealing the root surface of your teeth. This is unattractive and may lead to sensitivity, which means fragile teeth that are more likely to decay and erode.
Gum abscesses – This only really happens if you have severe gum disease. Abscesses may cause pain and if they spread, they can cause widespread issues for not only your mouth but the whole body.
Gum disease is a huge problem that affects the health of millions of people around the world. The primary importance of treating gum disease is to prevent tooth loss. Gum disease can be cured. Essentially it is about removing the bacteria in your mouth and helping your gums heal back to a healthy state. If you’re seeking treatment for gum disease, the first step is to educate yourself on how best to clean your teeth effectively at home.
Be sure to brush your teeth twice a day with an electric or hand-held manual toothbrush. Cleaning between your teeth – many individuals overlook this crucial region. Interproximal brushes should be used at least once daily, and you should use the appropriate size. It’s easy to make a mistake and utilise brushes that are too small, which means you’re not cleaning effectively. Your dentist or hygienist will tell you which correct size to use. As a rule of thumb, choose the biggest one you can get between the gap without the middle metal part touching the teeth.
Remember, this is general advice. It’s critical to obtain specific guidance for your mouth since everyone is different. Because the hygienist/dentist can’t clean your teeth on a daily basis, it’s up to you to practice excellent oral hygiene.
At Spinney Brook Dental Practice, you will always receive personalised attention. Our number one priority is to prevent gum disease by detecting it early and keeping up with good oral hygiene care.
If you do have gum disease, we will make a treatment plan just for you that is based on your specific needs.
Spinney Brook Dental Practice,
Studio 4,
Diamond Business Centre,
3 Attley Way,
Irthlingborough,
NN9 5GF
