Gum Disease & Gum Therapy

Before we launch into the science of gum disease, it's important to know that, despite it being one of the most widespread diseases across the world, it is preventable and can be easily treated when it is found early enough.

Periodontal disease, another name for gum disease is caused by bacteria that collects at the gum line as dental plaque. The plaque needs to be removed by brushing and cleaning between the teeth twice a day. If not properly removed, plaque can lead to inflammation of the gums, bone and other structures that support the teeth. When inflamed, the gum starts to come away from the tooth, forming pockets and the plaque grows down below the gum line. Over time, the bone that supports the teeth is destroyed, the gums shrink and eventually the teeth become wobbly and fall out. That's the science!

Book Now

What Does Gum Treatment Involve?

Treatment aims to reduce bacteria around your teeth and prevent the disease from getting worse. Generally though, treatment cannot replace the support your teeth have already lost.

You will be taught the best methods of cleaning your teeth and gums to remove dental plaque. Treatment will only work if you clean your teeth properly, twice a day, to a high standard
You need to clean daily between your teeth with interdental brushes - or floss if the gaps between teeth are too tight for brushes
You should use a small headed toothbrush or a good quality power brush - your dentist can advise you
The tartar above the gum-line can be removed by your dentist/hygienist
Any bacteria below the gum line can be removed by your dentist/hygienist deep cleaning your teeth. You can ask for an injection to make your gums and teeth numb if you prefer
Mouthwashes may help with very mild gum disease but may mask more serious gum disease

‍

What Are The Benefits of Treatment?

Your gums will be healthier and you may notice such benefits as
Greater confidence of a fresher mouth
Gums not being sore or bleeding when you brush
Teeth becoming less wobbly
Less discomfort when you eat
And ultimately, you will keep your teeth for longer

Ask your dentist to explain this, in particular relation to your own BPE score. Your BPE score is a measure of your gum health and should be a standard part of your routine dental examination. Success depends on how well you clean your teeth and how your gums respond. Cleaning thoroughly twice a day and regular dental visits are good habits to adopt for life.

‍

What Can You Expect After Treatment?

Your gums are likely to bleed more to start with - don’t worry and keep cleaning as this is normal and will improve
As they become healthier your gums may shrink. Spaces may appear between the teeth and they may appear longer
As gums shrink, your teeth may become more sensitive to hot, cold or sweet things. Usually this gets better in a few weeks, but you might need to use a special sensitivity toothpaste or have other treatment to help with this

‍

What Are the Available Alternatives?

No treatment:

The gum disease is likely to get worse
Your teeth could become wobbly with gaps appearing between your teeth
Your breath will not improve
Your gums and teeth could become painful
You are highly likely to lose your teeth sooner

‍

Extractions : Removal (extraction) of teeth may be an acceptable alternative treatment if your disease is severe.

‍

Smoking Considerations:

If you smoke tobacco you should do your best to give up - there are plenty of organisations that can help. Smokers who continue to smoke:

Are more likely to get gum disease
May find their gum disease gets worse quite quickly
Are less likely to get better after treatment
Are more likely to have a recurrence of gum disease following treatment

‍

At ODL Dental Clinic, we offer a range of gum therapy to patients suffering from mild/moderate cases to those suffering from the most advanced cases, including severe cases that could require gum surgery.

‍