Gum disease is not curable, but it is treatable and in most cases, controllable. As dentists and hygienists we can do a lot to help, mainly by giving you a regular scale and polish. However, there is much that you can do to prevent gum disease getting worse:
Avoid smoking, which builds up tartar levels in your mouth.
Avoid stress, which makes it difficult for our immune system to fight off the bacteria that cause gum infections.
Visit your dentist/hygienist on a regular basis and be guided by them on your dental hygiene routine – flossing, brushing correctly and using a good mouthwash.
Clean between your teeth with the aid of dental floss, special brushes and/or dental sticks.
Research has shown that 20-30% of people have immune systems that over-react to the bad bacteria in their mouths, which is why it is so important to get checked regularly. Also, in a small percentage of patients, certain medical conditions can be brought on by gum disease, e.g. heart disease, stroke, diabetes or premature birth.
GUM DISEASE
The signs of gum disease are bleeding, especially when brushing your teeth, and swollen, red or sore gums. If left untreated, gum disease can affect the bone supporting your teeth, causing teeth to fall out.
Prevention is always better than cure!
Regular trips to your dentist or hygienist will greatly reduce the chances of gum disease developing by removing the main cause, which is plaque. A regular “scale and polish” from your dentist or hygienist plus daily flossing and proper brushing, will keep your teeth plaque-free and prevent more costly treatments.
YOUR DENTIST WILL BE VERY PLEASED TO TALK YOU THROUGH ANY CONCERNS YOU MAY HAVE ABOUT YOUR INDIVIDUAL DENTAL HEALTH
