What causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease is caused by bacteria, a white film called plaque develops around the teeth when they aren’t cleaned. If this is removed everyday effectively by brushing, then gingivitis will not start.
How do you know if you have Gum Disease?
Bleeding gums are usually the first sign of gum disease, usually noticed when brushing the teeth. A bad taste may develop along with bad breath. As it progresses, the gums can become sore (although this is unlikely) and it can eventually lead to loose teeth and even abscesses.
How is Gum Disease treated?
Gum disease cannot be treated by the dentist alone – the patient has to play a significant part as well by cleaning all surfaces of the teeth thoroughly and effectively evryday. Without this, any good work carried out by the dentist in cleaning is quickly destroyed by the patients neglect.
What happens if the Gum Disease becomes more advanced?
If the gum disease has progressed to periodontitis the cleaning by the dentist or hygienist becomes more difficult. It may also involve cleaning of the roots of the teeth to ensure all bacteria is removed.
Do the teeth decay in Gum Disease?
Teeth do not decay as a direct result of gum disease, but the same bacteria which causes gum disease also causes tooth decay. Also as the gums recede they expose the roots surface of the tooth which is weaker and decays easier than the rest of the tooth. The root surface may also become sensitive to cold.