Gum Treatment

Healthy gums are essential to your oral health as well as your general health and wellbeing.

Poor gum hygiene can lead to bad breath and taste, infections, swelling, bleeding and may even result in the loss of your natural teeth.

Gum disease occurs in two stages. The first stage known as gingivitis is where your gums look red and inflamed, and you may even experience bleeding from them. Thankfully this is something that can be improved by having a professional clean and making changes to your oral hygiene regime. You may also benefit from regular visits with the hygienist for maintenance.

If gum health is not improved at these early stages it can progress into the second stage known as periodontitis. This is when plaque and tartar has built up below the gum line, which can then lead to a loss of bone. The removal of these deposits will require specialist treatment either with the dentist or hygienist. The treatment may also take multiple visits and may require a local anaesthetic to ensure all deposits are removed.

What factors increase the risk of gum disease?

• Smoking
• A sugary diet
• Certain medicines
• Diseases such as diabetes or cancer
• Overcrowding in the mouth

What can be done to prevent gum disease?

To avoid gum disease, it is important to brush twice daily and to clean in-between your teeth regularly. We also recommended regular dental check ups and maintenance appointments with the hygienist to ensure any deterioration in your gums is picked up at the earliest stage. On your visits, we will also advise you of certain dental products you would benefit from to help prevent gum disease.