|
A Gum disease describes swelling,
soreness or infection of the tissues supporting the
teeth. There are two main forms of gum disease: gingivitis
and periodontal disease.
A Gingivitis means inflammation
of the gums. This is when the gums around the teeth
become very red and swollen. Often the swollen gums
bleed when they are brushed during cleaning.
A Long-standing gingivitis can turn
into periodontal disease. There are a number of types
of periodontal disease and they all affect the tissues
supporting the teeth. As the disease gets worse the
bone anchoring the teeth in the jaw is lost, making
the teeth loose. If this is not treated, the teeth
may eventually fall out.
A Probably. Most people suffer from some
form of gum disease, and it is the major cause of tooth loss
in adults. However, the disease develops very slowly in most
people, and it can be slowed down to a rate that should allow
you to keep most of your teeth for life.
A All gum disease is caused by plaque. Plaque
is a film of bacteria, which forms on the surface of the
teeth and gums every day. Many of the bacteria in plaque
are completely harmless, but there are some that have been
shown to be the main cause of gum disease. To prevent and
treat gum disease, you need to make sure you remove all the
plaque from your teeth every day. This is done by brushing
and flossing.
|
 |
A The first thing to do is visit
your dentist for a thorough check-up of your teeth
and gums. The dentist can measure the 'cuff' of gum
around each tooth to see if there is any sign that
periodontal disease has started. X-rays may also
be needed to see the amount of bone that has been
lost. This assessment is very important, so the correct
treatment can be prescribed for you.
A Your dentist will usually give
your teeth a thorough clean. You'll also be shown
how to remove plaque successfully yourself, cleaning
all surfaces of your teeth thoroughly and effectively.
This may take a number of sessions with the dentist
or hygienist.
A Once your teeth are clean, your
dentist may decide to carry out further cleaning
of the roots of the teeth, to make sure that the
last pockets of bacteria are removed.
You'll probably need
the treatment area to be numbered before anything
is done. Afterwards, you may feel some discomfort for
up to 48 hour.
A Periodontal disease is never
cured. But as long as you keep up the home care
you have been taught, any further loss of bone
will be very slow and it may stop altogether. However,
you must make sure you remove plaque every day,
and go for regular check ups by the dentist and
hygienist.
 |
|
|
|
| |
Choose another treatment
below:
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
