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Gum Disease

Gum Disease

Gum Disease

At Museum dental we are often asked about gum disease. These are some questions we are often asked:

What is gum disease?

There are two main forms of gum disease: periodontal disease and gingivitis. Gum disease may be diagnosed if the tissues of that support the teeth develop:

  • Swelling
  • Soreness
  • Infection

What is gingivitis?

This term means ‘gum inflammation’. Typically gums will become swollen and red. The gums might bleed when teeth are being brushed.

What is periodontal disease?

Gingivitis if it is left un-treated can evolve into periodontal disease. As the disease progresses the jawbone that supports the tooth is lost, teeth will become loose and eventually fall out.

How likely am I to suffer from gum-disease?

Quite likely. Most people will get some type of gum disease, and it is the main cause of tooth loss in adults. However, the disease develops slowly in most people.

What causes gum disease?

All gum disease has a common cause – plaque, the film of bacteria that forms on the tooth surface every day. Many bacteria within plaque are harmless, but some have been shown to cause gum disease.

To prevent gum disease and control it you should always:

  • Brush
  • Clean in between teeth using floss or interdental brushes

Does smoking affect teeth and gums?

Smoking can make gum disease worse, as smokers are more likely to produce the bacterial plaque that leads to gum disease. Gum disease will typically get worse more quickly for smokers.

What happens if I do not get treatment for my gum disease?

Gum disease usually does not cause pain so you do not notice the damage being done although the bacteria will sometimes be more active and make gums sore. This may lead to a gum abscess. Over years, supporting bone can be lost.

What should I do if I think I have gum disease?

First you can visit a dental hygienist at Museum Dental Suites for a thorough check-up of your teeth and gums. A measurement of the 'cuff' of gum around each of your teeth will be taken to see if there is any sign of periodontal disease. X-rays may also be needed to see what bone has been lost.

What treatments are needed?

First your dental team will remove all the plaque and tartar from your teeth. You will be shown how you can remove plaque successfully for yourself effectively. This may take a number of sessions. A good oral home-care routine is essential to prevent gum disease worsening.

How will I know if I have gum disease?

Usually the first sign will be blood on your toothbrush or when you spit out after brushing. There may also be bleeding from the gums on eating and your breath may smell unpleasant.

Can periodontal disease, be cured?

Periodontal disease cannot be cured but can be controlled if you maintain home care as you have been taught to do. Any further bone loss will be very slow and it may stop completely. However, making sure you remove plaque every day, and have regular dental check-ups.

Is gum disease linked with other health conditions?

Some studies over recent years suggest that gum disease has been linked with some other general health conditions such as:

  • Diabetes,
  • Strokes,
  • Cardiovascular disease,
  • Poor pregnancy outcomes
  • Dementia.

More research will be done to help understand these links but more and more evidence supports the fact that having a healthy mouth and gums improves general health.

A consultation at Museum Dental Suites costs £180.

At Museum Dental Suites you can discuss your options with dentists who are at the forefront of education and who train other dentists in advanced and cosmetic dental work. You can be sure of expert, trustworthy and gentle treatment with a definitive treatment plan and cost estimate supplied before any work is carried out.

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