What is Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease)

What is gum health?

Your gums are the soft tissues that surround and support your teeth. Healthy gums are firm, pale pink and attach tightly around your teeth. Your gums play a crucial role in protecting the bone and keeping the teeth stable.

Why is gum health important?

Neglecting your gum health can lead to gum disease (periodontal disease), which impacts the tissues and bone that support your teeth.

The early stage of gum disease, called gingivitis, causes red, swollen and bleeding gums. Fortunately, it can be effectively treated through plaque and tartar removal, followed by consistent home care.

If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe condition that may lead to tooth loss, bone loss, bad breath and receding gums. Periodontitis is also linked to serious health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes, further emphasising the importance of proper gum care.

Signs of gum disease

Look out for these common symptoms:

• Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
• Red, swollen or tender gums
• Receding gums (when gums shrink, making teeth appear longer)
• Loose teeth or shifting teeth
• Changes in your bite
• Persistent bad breath

Treating gum disease

To treat gum disease, we perform a deep cleaning using specialised instruments to remove plaque and tartar from deep pockets below the gumline. This process, called scaling and root debridement, may require numbing (local anaesthesia) to ensure your comfort during the procedure.

Maintaining Gum Health Post-Treatment

After your deep cleaning, it is essential to maintain regular check-ups to prevent reinfection and detect any signs of disease progression early. We offer periodontal support therapy, which includes:

• Re-evaluating gum pocket depths
• Professional cleaning and polishing
• Personalised oral hygiene advice tailored to your needs

This ongoing care is essential for maintaining long-term gum health and preventing further complications.

Why Regular Reviews and Check-Ups are Crucial

Regular visits (every 6 months or as recommended) allow us to:

• Monitor your gum health
• Remove plaque and tartar buildup
• Provide expert oral hygiene guidance
• Detect any early signs of gum disease

Contact Panania Dental Surgery for a professional evaluation and thorough cleaning to treat and maintain your gum health.