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    • 35 Maiden Lane Centre
    • Kilnsea Drive
    • Lower Earley
    • Reading
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Periodontics

Periodontics in Earley, Reading

 

What it is, why you might need it, and treatment types

Most of us understand the need to keep gums healthy as well as teeth. So if you’ve noticed blood in the sink when you spit, it could be down to bleeding gums.

Many people will experience bleeding gums from time to time, particularly if we are brushing our teeth too hard. However, it’s important that when this happens we don’t ignore it. It could be a sign of a more serious problem – gum disease.

What is Periodontal Disease?

When you have periodontal disease, it affects your gums, bone, and other tissues that support your teeth. Most people have gum inflammation at some point in their lives, but only about 10% of the population seems to have the more serious forms of the disease that cause bone loss. This group seems to be the most likely to lose teeth because of gum disease. It is caused by the bacteria that builds up on the teeth over time.

Why do some people suffer from this problem and not others?

About 10% of the population is likely to get it. We are learning more and more about why this is happening, but 3 main things are thought to be to blame. Risk factors like family history, stress, and smoking are all very important. Stopping smoking is one of the most important things you can do to lower your risk of getting the disease. Some diseases, like diabetes, can also make a person more likely to get sick.

How do I know if I have Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease has many different signs and symptoms, but one of them is gums that bleed when you brush them. Other signs of more advanced disease include teeth that move or drift. But you could have the disease and not know about these signs. It is important to see your dentist on a regular basis so that special testing methods, like x-rays, can be used as part of your regular dental exams.

What should I do if I have the disease?

Your dentist will be able to make the right diagnosis if he or she looks at you regularly. Your dentist will be able to tell you what kind of treatment you need. This will often include specific ways to clean your mouth that will help you keep the bacteria that grows on your teeth under control. There may also be a need to have your teeth cleaned by a professional. Your dentist can treat most cases of periodontal disease successfully with methods like these. Sometimes, more complicated treatments are needed, and your dentist will tell you what to do.

What is gum disease?

Gum disease is a serious condition that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.

It starts with gingivitis which causes your gums to become red and inflamed. They may also bleed when you brush your teeth. If left untreated, this can turn into Periodontitis which affects your gum, jawbone and teeth, often resulting in the need for surgery.

What causes gum disease?

Many people understand plaque is bad news for our teeth, but it is also harmful to our gums.

Made from saliva and leftover food particles, plaque is extremely sticky and so often builds upon the surface of our teeth. It contains bacteria, and as it builds upon our teeth it can irritate gums, making them red, sore, and swollen.

Factors contributing to gum disease include:

  • Not cleaning teeth thoroughly
  • Poor nutrition
  • Smoking
  • Overcrowding of teeth
  • Medical conditions such as cancer and diabetes
  • A side-effect of certain types of medication

How can we prevent it?

Gingivitis is easily preventable as long as you clean your teeth properly and see your dentist for regular check-ups.

Gum disease should always be treated by a professional. One of the ways we tackle it is by deep cleaning through Airflow Tooth Polishing. With this method, water, fine powder particles, and compressed air remove plaque and bacteria from the teeth and gums, smoothing the tooth’s surface and giving your gums a deep clean. However, in some severe cases, surgery may be needed, which is carried out by a gum specialist, also known as a Periodontist.

If you want to preserve your healthy gums or are concerned about your gum health, book an appointment with your dentist by calling the Reading practice on 0118 9351 505.

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