Periodontal (Gum) Disease

Do you have bleeding when brushing or receding gums? Have you noticed your teeth becoming loose? 
Do you worry about bad breath? These can all be signs of periodontal disease . . . 
. . .commonly known as ‘gum disease’.
Surprising gum disease facts:
  • Gum disease is the main cause of adult tooth loss, NOT decay.
  • 3 out of 4 adults over 35 in the UK have gum disease, many without knowing!
  • Once gums recede, you can never bring them back, only slow down the problem
  • Women are at higher risk of gum disease due to hormonal changes
  • Current research suggests that people with gum disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from heart disease as those without gum disease

What causes it?

​When we brush our teeth we often miss certain areas, most commonly around the gum margin and between the teeth and this is where plaque and tartar builds up. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria which is constantly growing on our teeth. If plaque is allowed to build up around the gums, they become inflammed and may bleed when brushed or flossed. This is the first sign of gum disease called ‘gingivitis’ and at this stage it is easy to reverse.
However if left untreated, the gums then start to recede and separate from the teeth. Once this happens the damage is irreversible. The receded gums cannot regenerate but you can stop it getting worse.

How do I treat or prevent it?

Prevention and treatment is straightforward in most cases, if you are motivated. Prevention is always better than cure because with gum disease you cannot reverse the damage that has been done, only slow it down and stop it getting worse. Regular visits to our hygienists are essential as they will gently remove the plaque and tartar build up around your gums, showing you ways to constantly improve your brushing and flossing techniques.

The longer the plaque and tartar is left, the more damage is done. Once the gum disease is advanced it can still be controlled and our hygienists will concentrate on the problem areas, thoroughly but gently removing any tartar around the teeth and gums in the diseased areas. Visiting the hygienist and maintaining good oral hygiene is the most important part of fighting periodontal disease.

I've been told I have Gum Disease . . .

                                                  . . . but my mouth feels OK?

Unfortunately, apart from a bit of bleeding, there are very few symptoms during the early stages of gum disease even though irreversible damage is taking place. Only once the gums have receeded a lot may symptoms arise. The roots of the teeth become exposed and can be sensitive to hot, cold and sweet. Gum abscesses may form and the teeth slowly loosen as they lose their support.
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Unfortunately many people underestimate the importance of their gums. They are the foundations of your teeth. We all spend time and money regularly examining and treating tooth decay but our teeth are only as good as the gums supporting them.
★★★★★
"Thank you to everyone at Ocean Dental for being so kind to me and especially Dr Don for his skill, expertise and diligence. I am so very grateful." JB
​​★★★★★