Gum Disease

Gum disease can occur due to poor oral hygiene and the build of plaque and bacteria in the mouth.

Many people with severe forms of gum disease have to have their tooth extracted however if gum disease is detected early then preventions can be made to correct it.

There are many different types of gum disease and this hub is designed to give you more information about it.

There are three main forms of gum disease as outlined below:

• Gingivitis- This is the most common form of gum disease which occurs when the gums become inflamed and red. One of the very first signs that you may be suffering with gingivitis is when the gums bleed while brushing. A person can prevent themselves from gingivitis by maintaining a good oral hygiene routine such as brushing twice daily, flossing and using a mouthwash.
• Periodontitis- This is a more severe form of gum disease and normally forms when the first stage of gingivitis is left untreated and the condition worsens. Periodontitis not only inflames the gums but the inflammation reaches to the bone holding the tooth in place. This severe form of gum disease may result in loose teeth and teeth that need to be extracted.
• ANUG- Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis is another severe form of gum disease which is quite rare and affects people who have a very weak immune system and do not have a healthy diet. In this form of gum disease ulcers occur in the gums and can be so painful that it may even affect a person’s ability to eat and drink. In severe cases some people may even have to have their teeth extracted.

There are many symptoms associated with gum disease such as bleeding of the gums when brushing the teeth and inflamed red gums. Other symptoms include:

•      Bad Breath

•      Metallic taste in the mouth

•      Tooth Sensitivity

•      Redness and inflammation of the gums

•      Difficulty eating or drinking due to pain in the gums

•      Blue marks on the gums

•      Swelling of the gums

It is important that if you think you may be suffering from gum disease you should try to visit your dentist to assess your teeth and give you the correct treatment suitable for your dental requirements and the severity of your teeth.

There are many different types of treatment for gum disease and just by maintaining a good oral hygiene routine you can combat the effects of gingivitis and prevent it from worsening:

• Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing will aid in removing plaque and food particles from the teeth and gums.
• Gum Surgery - Some people with severe gum disease may need to have surgery on their gums to correct their teeth and gums.
• Scaling - Your dentist may be able to scale your teeth by intensely cleaning it and may recommend for you to have a few sessions
• Antibiotics - Some dentists may recommend that you take a course of antibiotics in order to reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth.
• Laser treatment - Many dentists may use laser treatment for gum disinfection
• Root planning - This treatment may be used when the gums are receding and root planning can aid in targeting bacteria in the mouth.

Many dentists will be happy to discuss the suitable treatment for gum disease according to your individual circumstances and dental requirements.

There are many ways in which you can prevent gum disease as just from regular brushing and flossing you can aid in maintaining healthy teeth and gums and combating gum disease.

It is recommended to visit your dentist regularly in order to identity any potential dental problems and have them corrected at the earliest. 

Maintaining a good diet and not eating too many sugary or acidic foods or drinks can aid in the prevention of plaque which if left untreated may result in gingivitis or other forms of gum disease.

There are many ways of finding a dentist who treats gum disease as described below:

• You can visit the www.cosmeticdentistryguide.co.uk as they have comprehensive information on gum disease and list many dentists and dental practices.
• You can search for dentists and dental practices on the internet by using search engines which enlists an extensive number of relevant websites which may be able to assist you.
• You can search your local directories as they often list dentists contact and address details and will have information on dental practices where you can ask them about treatment for gum disease and may be able to book an appointment.