The big problem in modern dentistry

Although you may think that tooth decay is a real monster for losing teeth, the main culprit is in fact gum disease. Gum disease may start off in the gum but it spreads, and when it spreads, that’s when the real problems start.

At Archway Dental Group in London, gum disease and prevention are one of our main focuses. We know that with this particular problem, prevention is so much easier than cure.

Gum Disease and Prevention Healthy gums

Healthy gums are pink and firm, and they hold your teeth securely in place. They do not hurt or bleed when they are brushed.

Early gum disease

Gum disease is a tricky one. It comes in 2 stages. The early stage is called gingivitis. For you, as the patient, this is not easy to pick up. Gingivitis doesn’t necessarily hurt. It may make your gums bleed when you brush them, but it may not. Your gums may be red and swollen. The best way to know if you have it is to come for regular dental check-ups and allow us to spot it. What you really want to avoid, if you can, is letting gingivitis get to the next stage.

Late gum disease

We call this periodontitis. This is when the gum disease spreads into the tissues and bones that support the teeth. You are likely to develop bad breath, loose teeth, an unpleasant taste in your mouth, and even collections of pus under your gums or teeth called abscesses. Periodontitis can lead to teeth falling out.

Gum disease and prevention

It’s easy to avoid gum disease by keeping up with a diligent oral health routine. Brush teeth carefully for at least 2 minutes last thing at night and at one other time during the day. Floss. Visit the dentist at least twice a year for check-ups and the hygienist for a good scale and polish to remove the plaque and tartar that harbour the bacteria that create gum disease. This is even more important if you are a smoker and as you get older. A weak immune system and diabetes also make it more likely that you will develop gum disease.