Gum disease is one of the most common oral diseases. If you have gum disease, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as you notice symptoms.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an oral disease, which occurs when acids released by harmful bacteria irritate your gums, and cause them to become inflamed. Most cases of gum disease are linked to plaque, which is a sticky substance that forms when bacteria and food debris combine with saliva. If you don’t brush your teeth on a regular basis, plaque can form, leaving you at risk of both decay and gum disease.
Symptoms of gum disease include:
- Swollen, sore gums
- Redness in the gums
- Bleeding gums
If you notice these signs, see your dentist. These are often symptoms of mild gum disease, which can be treated relatively easily. If you have advanced gum disease, additional symptoms may include an unpleasant taste in the mouth, bad breath, and receding gums. Advanced gum disease, known as periodontal disease or periodontitis, is much harder to treat, and it causes irreparable damage to the mouth. Gum disease is the most common cause of adult tooth loss in the UK at the moment.
Preventing Gum Disease
The good news about gum disease is that it can be prevented. The best ways to prevent gum disease are:
- Maintaining good oral hygiene
- Seeing your dentist every 6-12 months (or sooner if you spot potential signs of gum disease)
Avoiding smoking and moderating your intake of sugar can also help to reduce gum disease risk. If you’re worried about gum disease, or you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, now is the time to pick up the phone, and make an appointment.
Tags: Advice, Periodontitis, Prevention, Symptoms
