GUM DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH 2025
What is Gum disease?
Gum disease is caused by a build up of bacteria in the mouth, irritating the gums and causing them to become swollen and inflamed. Did you know that gum disease is the one of the most common diseases, affecting an estimated 60-70% of adults within the UK. There are multiple stages to gum disease, lets look a them and discover ways to prevent them.
First of all lets look at plaque, plaque is a sticky biofilm that collects on teeth and is made up of lots of bacteria. Plaque loves to sit at those hard to reach areas of the mouth that may not get cleaned as regularly, particularly where your teeth meet your gums. If plaque is left sat on the teeth for too long the soft sticky stuff, becomes hard and very difficult to remove without the help of a hygienist, this is called calculus.
Unless plaque or calculus is removed by good oral hygiene, it will release toxins which will irritate the gums in your mouth. The body will then attack the toxins, which sends white blood cells to the area, this causes inflammation and bleeding.
This causes gingivitis. Gingivitis is inflammation, bleeding and swelling of the gums. It is completely reversible with good oral hygiene and regular visits to your hygienist!
What if gingivitis is left untreated?
Untreated gingivitis leads to periodontal disease. When the gums have reached this stage it is no longer reversible, however with a professionals help it can be stabilised. Periodontal disease is where the bacteria starts eating away at the gums. This causes the gums to recede or pull away from the teeth.
This now leaves the teeth and the bone exposed to more bacteria and infection. When the gums start to recede so does the bone supporting the teeth, this is why teeth become mobile. The gums will create gaps between them and the teeth, this can be very painful and hotspots for trapped food and bacteria, meaning they will need to be cleaned regularly.
How can you prevent gum disease?
- Regular brushing and cleaning in-between your teeth with brushes or floss.
- When brushing make sure you are brushing all the way down to your gumline, gently, to maximise the control of the plaque.
- Regular visits to the dentist and hygienist (If required). Here they can assess your gum health and give you the most accurate and up to date advice.
- If needed, visits to the hygienist means they can help you to find a routine that best suits you. Discuss with them your concerns, they are there to help.
- Regular cleans with the hygienist will help keep that bacteria at bay, not only that but will help keep you feeling fresh.
- Consider using a mouthwash between meals before brushing your teeth (Make sure its alcohol free!).
Book your exam and gum health assessment today on: 01752 775693
