Gum Disease Treatments

Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss worldwide and can be prevented. Ensuring your teeth and gums stay healthy is the most important aspect of dentistry.

Bacteria builds up in our mouths constantly and gum disease begins with plaque, which hardens onto our teeth. This turns into tartar and usually forms around the tooth along the gum line. There are some early warning signs such as bleeding gums which is known as Gingivitis, gums that are receding away from the tooth, bad breath, loose teeth or teeth that may change position.

Gum disease can be very painful but it is reversible when attended to early. If untreated the gums will recede and turn into a more serious condition known as periodontitis. Once the bone structures that holds the teeth in are affected, this will eventually lead to a loss of a tooth.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums which can become infected and start to bleed when brushing. This is cause by the bacteria in the build up of plaque around the gums. Generally if one practices good oral hygiene, this is often the best cure and prevention in the long term.

Over a period of time, plaque can harden and become difficult to remove so we recommend visiting our oral hygienists at The Wimbledon Dentist at least twice a year for a full scale and polish treatment. Our hygienists provide expert advice and will also give you an individual hygiene programme that is easy to follow. This will include the best technique on how to brush your teeth, the type of toothbrush that is suitable for you and whether a medicated mouthwash is required. Dietary advice is also important as certain food products can help towards maintaining good oral health.

Periodontitis

If gum disease is untreated, pockets form under the gum line where more plaque will gather. This leads to periodontal disease, which affects the underlying bone structure that holds the teeth in and can result in the loss of a tooth. Periodontitis can be a serious as it has been linked to an increased risk of stroke or heart disease. Periodontal disease is treatable and involves scaling and cleaning the deep pockets that have formed under the gum. In more severe cases, a local anaesthetic may be required to remove tartar from around the tooth roots.

If you have any signs of gums that bleed during brushing, or if you are concerned about bad breath then please call 020 8544 0112 to arrange an appointment.