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Preventing Gum Disease |
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What is gum disease?
Gum disease is defined as inflammation of the tissues that
support the teeth.The effect of this inflammation, over a
period of time, is to cause the gums to recede. Recession
occurs not only on the outside but also invisibly on the inside
where the gum meets the tooth. In this way recession can
cause pockets to develop between the teeth and gums.
Once pockets develop, bacteria accumulate inside them
and accelerate the disease process. Diseased or inflamed
gums bleed when they are brushed or flossed. Healthy gums
do not bleed.
Gum problems usually begin without any initial symptoms
so it is important to have both your teeth and gums checked
regularly. Once problems start they can progress at an
increased rate, with damage occurring over a relatively short
period of time.
When gum disease is in the early stages it is called gingivitis.
When inflammation reaches the bone it is called periodontitis.
This can eventually result in tooth loss if left untreated, as the
bone supporting the teeth is progressively lost.
What causes gum disease?
Gum disease is caused by an accumulation of plaque on the
teeth. Plaque is a term that describes the film of bacteria
which is constantly forming on the surface, and between,
teeth. If left in place, plaque causes tooth decay and gum
disease. When plaque has been present for several days it can
harden to form tartar (calculus).This deposit typically builds
up behind the lower teeth and deep between the teeth.
How can I prevent gum disease?
Healthy gums are the support for healthy teeth. Lifelong
protection for teeth and gums starts with regular dental
examinations and hygiene visits. 80% of adults have gum
disease to some degree and everyone needs advice on
cleaning and maintenance.
Thorough tooth cleaning each day is the most important
measure to prevent plaque from building up. Brushing can
remove plaque on the front and back surfaces of the teeth
and special aids such as floss, tape or interdental brushes can
remove plaque from between the teeth.Your hygienist will
demonstrate brushing techniques, the use of floss and other
devices and will help choose the right products. Once tartar
has formed, it can only be removed by a hygienist or dentist.
Susceptibility
Not everyone has the same susceptibility to gum disease.
Some people have a very strong natural resistance and do
not experience severe periodontal disease even when their
oral hygiene is poor. Other people, although perfectly healthy,
have a very low resistance to gum infection and have to
achieve virtually perfect dental hygiene to prevent it. Most
people are in between these extremes.
The hygienist
Dental hygienists are professionally trained to work with the
dentist to provide individually tailored treatment and advice.
They play an important role in oral health and are particularly
focused on the prevention of gum disease.
Your hygienist visit
The hygienist will assess your gums and teeth, checking for any
swelling or inflammation and for any bleeding. Measurements
of where the gum attaches to the tooth may also be taken
(pockets).The hygienist will then carefully remove the tartar
using manual or ultrasonic instruments. Removing the tartar
makes the teeth easier to keep clean, as its rough surface
tends to attract more plaque.The hygienist will then polish
the teeth leaving them smooth and clean. If a lot of tartar is
present, two or more visits may be necessary.
If gum disease has become advanced, a special programme
for removing deep deposits from the root surface may be
required.This is called root planing or debridement. It may be
necessary for the dentist or hygienist to anaesthetise an area
of your mouth to make it more comfortable whilst this is
done. In severe cases a slow-release antibiotic gel may be
prescribed to help stop the harmful bacteria from causing
further damage.
At the end of your visit the hygienist will advise when you
need to return to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Most
people need a hygienist visit every six months, or more
frequently if they have a problem.This appointment can
usually be booked in conjunction with a regular dental
examination. Recent research has shown that people who
regularly see the hygienist experience less dental decay and
require less dental work in the long term.
Home care
Treatment will only be successful if you maintain an oral
hygiene routine.Your hygienist will give you a home care
routine to suit your individual needs. In some cases this may
involve a radical change in how you care for your teeth.
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All dentists and hygienists are committed to help prevent gum
disease.Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums at
each check-up appointment and advise you of any treatment
that may be necessary. Most patients will normally see the
hygienist on a regular basis.
Did you know?
The following patients have an increased risk of developing
gum disease:
- Smokers (these patients are also at risk from mouth cancer)
- Patients with uncontrolled diabetes
- Orthodontic treatment for adults
- Pregnant women
Gum disease and plaque build-up are the biggest causes
of bad breath.
We stock a range of dental products. Should you require any
information on any of the products available please do not
hesitate to ask a member of our staff.
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