Most people can get mild gum disease, but some people are more susceptible to aggressive forms. Severe gum disease, especially if you have it at a young age, can run in families.
There are a few factors that put people at higher risk of severe gum disease. These include:
Gum disease is usually pain-free, sometimes called the silent disease, so you may be unaware of it until your dentist or hygienist checks for it. Here are some of the red flags:
1
Red, Swollen Or Bleeding Gums
Gums that are inflamed, tender or bleed easily during brushing or flossing.
2
Persistent Bad Breath Or Bad Taste
Ongoing halitosis or a constant unpleasant taste in the mouth.
3
Receding Gums
Gums pulling back from the teeth, making teeth appear longer.
4
Loose Or Shifting Teeth
Advanced gum disease can affect the support structure of your teeth.
5
Painful Chewing Or Sensitivity
Discomfort or sensitivity may happen when gums recede and expose roots.
6
Gums Not Firmly Attached
Gums may no longer fit snugly around the teeth, creating deeper pockets.
Being someone who is absolutely petrified of going to the dentists has resulted me in having gum disease. I came across Mark Tangri on social media and straight away he caught my attention. I then booked a consultation and from the time I walked in to the time I left I have never felt so comfortable and supported.
Nina Mathari
★★★★★
I've been a patient of Mark's for 15 years now. I am an exceptionally phobic patient and Mark has gone above and beyond to develop my trust so that I can receive treatment. I would not go anywhere else.
Claire Till
★★★★★
First time at Mark Tangri Dental Excellence and an impressive experience, excellent facilities, with friendly and welcoming staff on hand to ease any worries.
Ask your dentist to explain this in 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.
Please tell your dentist about any health problems and any tablets or medicines you are taking. Some conditions or medications may change how your gum disease is managed.
Treatment aims to reduce bacteria around your teeth and prevent the disease from getting worse.
You will be shown the best methods of cleaning your teeth and gums.
You may need daily cleaning between your teeth with interdental brushes or floss.
Tartar above the gum line can be removed by your dentist or hygienist.
Bacteria below the gum line may be removed through deeper cleaning.
Your gums may bleed more to start with. Keep cleaning as advised.
As gums become healthier, they may shrink and teeth can appear longer.
Teeth may become sensitive for a short time, but this usually improves.
Removal of teeth may be an option if disease is severe. Your dentist will explain all suitable treatment options and replacement choices where needed.
Smoking can increase the risk of gum disease, make it progress faster and reduce the success of treatment. Giving up smoking can greatly support gum health.