GUM DISEASE
Heybridge Dental Practice helps you prevent gum disease and maintain healthy gums with our hygiene services that include, scaling, polishing, AirFlow and detailed oral hygiene instructions unique to your mouth. At-home care is very important, so be sure to take preventive measures like those listed below:
- Daily brushing: While holding the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle, go over each tooth’s surface with small circular motions, focusing at the gum line. It is recommended to use an electric toothbrush with a small round head.
- Flossing: Apply dental floss in and out between your teeth to remove debris that could later lead to decay and infection. Don’t forget to floss under the gum as well (where possible).
- Interdental brushing: Use interdental brushes to clear away plaque and debris that your regular brush and floss can’t access. These are ideal for larger gaps in between teeth. By having regular dental check-ups and following good oral hygiene practices, you can prevent the onset of gum disease and keep your smile clean and healthy.
Why not contact us today to see how we can help.
FAQs
What is gum disease?Gum disease describes swelling, soreness or infection of the tissues supporting the teeth. There are two main forms of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontal disease.
What is gingivitis?
Gingivitis means inflammation of the gums. This is when the gums around the teeth become very red and swollen. Often the swollen gums bleed when they are brushed during cleaning.
What is periodontal disease?
Long-standing gingivitis can turn into periodontal disease. There are a number of types of periodontal disease and they all affect the tissues supporting the teeth. As the disease gets worse the bone anchoring the teeth in the jaw is lost, making the teeth loose. If this is not treated, you may eventually lose these your teeth.
What causes gum disease?
All gum diseases are caused by plaque. Plaque is a film of bacteria that forms on the surface of the teeth and gums every day. To prevent and treat gum disease, you need to make sure you remove all the plaque from your teeth every day. Brushing and cleaning between your teeth effectively will achieve this.
What happens if gum disease is not treated?
Unfortunately, gum disease progresses painlessly on the whole so that you do not notice the damage it is doing. However, the bacteria are sometimes more active and this makes your gums sore. This can lead to gum abscesses, and pus may ooze from around the teeth. Over a number of years, the bone supporting the teeth can be lost. If the disease is left untreated for a long time, treatment can become more difficult, and you will start to lose your teeth.
How do I know if I have gum disease?
The first sign is blood on the toothbrush or in the rinsing water when you clean your teeth. Your gums may also bleed when you are eating, leaving a bad taste in your mouth. Your breath may also become unpleasant.
What can be done?
We offer a range of gum disease treatments, including deep cleaning by our Hygienists. Local anesthesia is administered for patients’ comfort, and comprehensive cleaning of the teeth and gums are carried out. This can sometime require multiple appointments. Your dentist will also discuss the possibility of being referred to a specialist.
How much does a hygienist visit cost?
£49 per session
For more information about our dental hygiene services or to schedule an appointment, call Heybridge Dental Practice today.