Did you know that gum disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in adults? More than 80% of adults in the UK will experience gum disease (gingivitis) at some point in their lives and of these 10% will be severely affected.
What is gingivitis?
In the early stages of gingivitis plaque builds up in the areas between the teeth. The gums become inflamed, and you will start to see bleeding when brushing. Although the gums may be irritated, the teeth are still firm.
Signs of gingivitis are: Red, swollen gums or gums that bleed easily.
The good news is that no irreversible bone damage has occurred at this stage, gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease. However, if it is left untreated it can progress into periodontitis.
Gingivitis is a clear message from our teeth and gums that we need to be more proactive about our oral and overall health.
When gingivitis is left unchecked, it can develop into periodontitis, a more serious condition that weakens the bones and tissues that support and protect your teeth. The good news is that with regular treatment and expert intervention you can reverse the effects of gingivitis.
At Contemporary Dental we have dedicated professionals with a particular interest in gum health who can work with you to restore your gums to a healthy condition.
Causes of periodontal disease
Plaque is one of the most common causes of gum disease. Plaque contains harmful bacteria which, if not removed by a good oral care routine, will irritate the gums, and cause them to bleed when brushing or flossing. Once gum disease has progressed to the periodontitis stage, the gums begin to separate from the teeth and form pockets below the gum line that become infected.
Treating periodontal disease
Once gum disease has progressed to periodontitis, we can’t reverse existing damage but there are a range of treatments available that can stabilise the condition. Whether your gum disease stabilises, slows, or progresses depends very much on your oral care routine and the treatment provided.
Maintaining gum health
Once we have helped you to stabilise the condition of your gums, we will arrange a programme of regular hygiene therapy and continuing oral health advice. We normally recommend you visit the hygienist between two and four times a year to keep the bacteria under control and stop gum disease from progressing.
