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Gum Disease: Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment

3520145_blogAt City Dental we provide expert dental care to prevent and treat gum disease, one of the most common dental diseases in the UK. Whether you have a clean bill of oral health, have symptoms of mild gum disease or are suffering with periodontal disease, we can help.

Diagnosing gum disease

Gum disease is caused by the presence of harmful bacteria in the mouth that release acids that irritate the gums, causing them to swell and become extremely sore and tender. In the early stages, the most common signs of gum disease include bleeding gums (this is usually noticeable when you clean your teeth or floss), inflammation and pain in and around the gums. As gum disease progresses, additional signs may become noticeable. These include bad breath, an unpleasant taste in the mouth and the formation of pockets located between the teeth and gums. In order to diagnose gum disease, our dentists use their experience and expertise to assess and detect symptoms through thorough examination of the mouth and particularly the gums. In severe cases, additional tests to determine the extent of damage to the bone tissue beneath the gums may also be carried out.

Treating gum disease

Treatment for gum disease is usually provided by dentists and dental hygienists. In mild cases, good oral hygiene helps to reduce symptoms and prevent the condition from getting worse. We may also offer you advice for practising good oral hygiene at home and recommend frequent dental hygiene sessions. In the case of advanced gum disease, treatment requires a long-term approach as periodontal disease causes permanent damage to the bone supporting the teeth. The aim of treatment is to minimise damage and to ease symptoms. Frequent dental hygiene sessions are recommended and treatments such as root planing and scale and polish are used. In very severe cases, surgery may be required.

Preventing gum disease

Thankfully, gum disease is preventable in most cases and there are some really easy steps you can follow to help you reduce your risk of developing oral health problems. These include:

  • brushing your teeth twice a day
  • brushing for at least two minutes each time
  • using fluoride toothpaste
  • brushing gently
  • flossing daily or using inter-dental brushes
  • limiting your sugar intake
  • seeing a dentist for a check-up every six months

We also recommend trying to quit smoking if you are a smoker. Smoking increases the risk of gum disease, as it reduces oxygen flow to the gums. We understand that it can be very difficult to quit smoking and we are able to offer practical advice and support to help you to give up for good.

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