Do You Think You Might Have Gum Disease?
Are you concerned you might have gum disease? This is a widespread problem that can without treatment become chronic, meaning it can never be entirely cured but instead will require ongoing treatments to control it. Gum disease is one of the reasons why our dentist in Clacton recommends preventative dental care. Even though many people will develop some form of gum disease during their lifetime, it’s definitely avoidable with the correct dental care. So what are the most common signs of gum disease?
Symptoms You Need to Be Aware of
One of the most common symptoms of gum disease is having gums that bleed when you brush or floss. If you notice this occurring then it’s time for you to take action, as the sooner you get treatment, the more likely it is that our Clacton dentist can completely cure your gum disease. The earliest symptoms of gum disease are called gingivitis and at this stage you might also notice that your gums begin to look slightly red and swollen.
Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection that develops when bacteria are allowed to build up in the mouth, usually as a result of poor oral hygiene. These bacteria thrive on leftover food debris and as their numbers increase, they produce toxins that inflame and infect the gums.
As the disease progresses then it’s likely your gums will begin to pull away from your teeth. This creates gum pockets or periodontal pockets and these are a problem for your dental health because they allow the bacteria that cause gum disease to thrive.
Without prompt treatment the bacterial infection will spread, destroying the ligaments holding your teeth in your sockets as well as the bone surrounding your teeth. In time you may notice your teeth begin to come loose, or your bite may change as your teeth shift position.
Why You Need to Take Action If You Think You Have Gum Disease
If you think you might have gum disease or it’s been a while since you have seen a dentist in Clacton then it’s a great idea to book a check-up and a professional cleaning with our hygienist. Our dentist will soon be able to determine if you do have any symptoms of gum disease and will suggest the most appropriate treatments to eliminate or control it.
In its early stages, gingivitis can often be cured by having your teeth professionally cleaned but treatment is much more complex if the disease has progressed into periodontitis or advanced gum disease. However there are a number of procedures that can help and which include having your gums deep cleaned to remove much of the bacterial infection, and there are also surgical treatments that can help repair some of the damage caused by periodontitis.
Another important reason for avoiding gum disease is that it will help to protect your general health. Unfortunately gum disease has been linked with a considerable number of general health problems including heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, some cancers and diabetes.
The good news is that gum disease is preventable and once you have healthy gums then it’s relatively easy to maintain them and this is where we can help you. To book your check-up give us a call on 01255 221001.