Gum Hygiene
Gum disease: prevention is key
Gum disease is a serious dental concern, and if left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and other health complications. Many people don’t realise they have gum disease until it has advanced. Luckily, with proper care and early treatment, gum disease can be prevented or even reversed.
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What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease (also known as periodontal disease or periodontitis) is a chronic inflammation of the gums caused by bacteria growth in the mouth. It is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
The disease progresses from gingivitis (early-stage gum disease) to more severe conditions, damaging your gums and the bone structure of your teeth.
Causes of Gum Disease
The most common cause of gum disease is plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth.
If plaque isn’t removed through regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional. The build-up of plaque and tartar can irritate your gums, leading to bleeding, gum recession, and tooth loss if untreated.
Other risk factors for gum disease include:
Genetics: Some people are genetically predisposed to gum disease.
Smoking: Smoking significantly increases your risk of gum disease.
Poor Diet: A diet high in sugar and carbs can encourage plaque build-up.
Diabetes: People with diabetes are more prone to gum disease.
Medications: Some medications can affect gum health.
Stress: Stress can lower your body’s ability to fight off infections, including gum disease.
How We Treat Gum Disease
The good news is that gum disease is treatable with proper dental care. At Woodberry Down Dental Practice, we offer a range of gum hygiene treatments designed to address gum disease at all stages:
Regular Teeth Cleanings
Professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar.
Scaling and Root Planing
A deep cleaning method that removes plaque and tartar below the gumline to help treat gum disease.
Fluoride Rinses
To strengthen the enamel and support gum health.
Local Anaesthetic
For more advanced procedures, we use local anaesthetic to ensure a pain-free experience.
If gum disease becomes severe, we may refer you to a periodontal specialist for advanced treatment options.
Preventing Gum Disease
Prevention starts at home. While regular dental visits are crucial, the key to healthy gums is daily care and good habits. Here’s what you can do:
Floss Daily
Flossing removes plaque and trapped food particles from between your teeth, right where your toothbrush can't reach.
Eat a Healthy Diet
A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables helps keep your gums strong. Avoid sugary, carb-heavy foods that feed plaque.
Quit Smoking
Smoking harms your gum tissue, slows healing, and significantly raises your risk of developing oral cancer over time.
Brush Twice a Day
Brushing removes plaque from your teeth twice daily and stops it from hardening into stubborn, damaging tartar buildup.
Why Choose Woodberry Down Dental Practice?
At Woodberry Down Dental Practice, we’re committed to keeping your gums healthy. Our experienced team offers gentle care and effective treatments that can prevent and treat gum disease. We’ll work with you to develop a personalised treatment plan to ensure your gums stay healthy for years to come.
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Whether you're registering as a new patient, have a question about treatment, or want to book a consultation, our team will get back to you quickly.
Book ConsultationFrequently asked questions
We understand you may have questions before booking. Here are some of the most common.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease is a chronic inflammation of the gums caused by plaque and tartar build-up. If untreated, it can progress from gingivitis to periodontitis, potentially leading to tooth loss and bone damage.
How can I prevent gum disease at home?
Maintaining daily oral hygiene, including brushing twice a day, flossing, eating a balanced diet, and quitting smoking, is essential to prevent gum disease. Regular dental visits are also crucial.
How often should I have a hygiene clean?
Most people benefit from a hygiene clean every six months. If you're prone to gum disease we may recommend every three to four months, and your hygienist will advise what's best for you.