Gum Disease

Gum Disease

Gum disease is extremely common and affects 3 out of every 4 adults over the age of 35 in the UK.

Gum disease is a bacterial infection that gradually causes the gum, bone and supporting structure around your teeth to be lost. As the foundation is lost it can eventually lead to loss of teeth if untreated. Gum disease, not decay is the biggest cause of tooth loss.

At Hello Dental we have a particular interest and expertise in treating gum disease.

Causes of Gum Disease:

Some people are more prone to gum disease. in about 30% of the population there are various genetic factors that cause the gum disease to progress more rapidly. In some people the genetic predisposition is so strong that the gum disease is very aggressive and needs specialist management.

Poor oral hygiene is a main contributor. A build-up of plaque on our teeth that is not removed will harden and form tartar, which brushing cannot remove. The longer that plaque and tartar are left on the teeth, the more destructive the bacteria becomes. It’s important to use an effective brushing technique twice a day for at least two minutes and clean in-between your teeth daily.

Diabetics especially if your diabetes is uncontrolled can have an impact.

Smoking is very strongly linked with gum disease. The toxins in cigarette smoke together with nicotine prevent the body effectively fighting off the bacteria that cause gum disease.