Gum disease
It is easy not to notice gum disease until it has progressed to a stage where it is difficult to treat as there is often no pain and the symptoms can be missed. It is for this reason that we monitor your gum health at every check-up, even in an apparently healthy looking mouth, so that we can deal with any problems early.
Gum disease is caused by the bacteria in plaque attacking the gums that support the teeth. In the first stages, the gums become inflamed, red and bleed easily, when brushing for example. If this plaque is left, it becomes hard and cannot be removed by simple brushing alone. This is when it needs to be professionally removed by a dentist or hygienist. If the calculus is left then harbours more plaque and attacks the gums causing deep pocketing and bone loss around the tooth. At this stage, treatment is difficult and requires regular cleaning by one of our dentists or hygienists and meticulous maintainance by you. If left the tooth then becomes loose and painful and difficult to treat.
It is much easier for you to clean your teeth if you do not have gum disease.
We help you to do this by helping you find easy and effective ways to clean your teeth, and remove any calculus that may be present.