Gum disease is a major cause of tooth loss. Even though your actual teeth may remain healthy, gum disease can damage the gum and roots so badly that the root of the tooth dies and is unable to support the tooth, at which point they may become loss and fall out.

Gum disease is experienced by many people. The most noticeable symptom is the inflammation and tenderness of the gums, this is called gingivitis. You may also find that your gums bleed very easily when eating or brushing your teeth. Bad breath (‘halitosis’) may also accompany gum disease. Gingivitis will developing into periodontitis if it is not treated. It is at this point when the roots begin to die and you are at very great risk of losing your teeth.

The best way to combat gum disease is with regular brushing and flossing of your teeth. Using a soft bristled brush will allow you to clean along your gums without doing any damage to them. When flossing you should be sure to gently run the floss up above the gum line to remove any food or plaque that may have become lodged up there.

If you fear that you may be suffering from gum disease it is best to visit your City of Leeds dentist as soon as possible for an expert opinion. There are several treatment options that can be offered, varying in severity depending on the individual cases. As always prevention is better than cure, so keeping brushing and flossing and you will likely never have to deal with gum disease.