Question 1

What is gum disease?

Accepted Answer

If plaque build-ups around the gum line aren’t removed, the gum tissues start to get inflamed. Swollen, red gums are the hallmark for the early stage of gum disease, gingivitis. It can be managed by more extensive periodontal treatment by your dentist and hygienist, or may sometimes require referral to a periodontal specialist.

If gingivitis is left untreated and the tartar deposits left at the gum line, the gums start to recede as a result. This leads to pockets developing between the gum and the tooth, exposing the sensitive and vulnerable tooth root. Once plaque and tartar build up on the root, it’s much harder to remove. This part of gum disease is called periodontitis and isn’t reversible like the earlier stage. It can be managed by a dentist or periodontist through more extensive periodontal treatment.

Question 2

Why does gum disease happen?

Accepted Answer

Gum disease is caused by the plaque that builds up daily on your teeth. If this sticky substance is not removed, it can turn into hard tartar and start to irritate the gums, leading to redness and soreness. As a reaction to this irritation, the body can start to attack any build-up around the teeth. In some people, their immune system can overreact and start to break down the gum tissue and even the bone that supports the tooth.

Question 3

What are the stages of gum disease?

Accepted Answer

The first stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis and this causes gums to become irritated, swollen and to bleed easily. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, which can cause gums to separate from the teeth, creating pockets that are susceptible to infection. Over time, these pockets will deepen, the gums will continue to recede, and eventually, teeth can become loose and may have to be removed. Despite the destructive nature of this process, there may only be mild symptoms, even at a late stage.

Question 4

Symptoms of gum disease

Accepted Answer

Inflammation
Redness
Bleeding after brushing
Receding gums
Bad breath
Bright red or purplish gums
Changes in the way your teeth fit together

Question 5

What happens during a hygiene appointment?

Accepted Answer

Your hygienist appointment will always start with a thorough assessment of your oral health. This will include assessment of the soft tissues in general and a thorough evaluation of the condition of the gums. We will check for any plaque or scale around the teeth, any specific areas of inflammation, and whether there are any areas that are hard to clean and could be at higher risk of issues in the future. We will also check for any ‘pockets’ around the teeth, and a regular pocket depth check will be completed for all patients, especially those with established periodontal disease, to monitor responses to treatment and help tailor your plan to your specific needs.

Our fabulous hygienists will remove plaque and tartar from around the teeth and from within any pockets that may be found, comfortably and efficiently. This may be carried out on a number of sessions depending on how much treatment is needed, comfortably and with topical anaesthetic as necessary.

This can be combined with airflow polishing, as shown in the video above, which helps clean off even more stain and leaves you with smooth, clean and bright teeth and a beaming smile.

Finally, we will advise you how to properly care for your teeth and gums when you are not with the hygienist. We will show you how to use cleaning tools effectively between the teeth so you can maintain that beautiful smile at home!

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