Gum Disease

Gum disease (pyorrhoea as it is called) or periodontal disease are caused by plaque build up on teeth. Plaque is a film of bacteria, which usually appears as a yellow sticky film on teeth. Plaque is also a cause of tooth decay. If the plaque is not removed it hardens to form a hard scale called calculus which can only be removed by a dentist or hygienist.

Gum disease will weaken your gums ability to act as a support for your teeth. Gum disease affects 90% of the population and is the primary cause of tooth loss. Gum disease is usually painless until later stages, and can cause:

• the gums to be red and/or swollen
  
  
• the bleeding of your gums
  
  
• bad breath
  
  
• a bad taste in your mouth
  
  
• soreness of your teeth
  
  
• drifting/ movement of your teeth
  
  
• tooth loss

Prevention of gum disease

Gum disease can usually be prevented or controlled by good and careful teeth cleaning. Your dentist or hygienist can also provide prevention advice. Thus your mouth can stay healthy and disease free.

There are high-risk factors that can make you more susceptible to gum disease, these are; smoking, poor diet, high alcohol intake, stress, and there is also a hereditary component.

The dentist will assess your gums at every dental health examination, the dentist will also take measurements of your gums which are recorded, this system ensures that any problems with your gums are highlighted and can be treated accordingly.