The Mulberry Dental Blog » Gum Disease

Molesey dentist explains reasons behind bleeding gums

admin — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 03:58:37 +0000

Spitting out toothpaste and noticing blood in the sink can be a worrying experience. As can noticing the taste of blood in the mouth but it can be due to a number of reasons. In most cases this is easily treated and will eventually make your teeth and gums stronger and healthier.

The main cause of bleeding gums is gum disease. In its milder form this is known as gingivitis, but when it becomes more serious it is called periodontitis. It occurs when the gums are covered and attacked by plaque and bacteria. These release acids, which gradually erode the gum tissue and cause irritation and infection. This can often cause the gums to bleed as a result of being weakened by an infection. This kind of bleeding gum acts as an indicator that you need to start paying more attention to your dental hygiene.

The gums can also bleed if you have recently started to floss or pay more attention to your dental hygiene. Flossing for the first time will stimulate areas of the gums around the base of the teeth that may not have been cleaned for a long time. They will be very sensitive and may bleed as a result of coming into contact with the dental floss. This will usually stop after a few days of flossing as the gums become cleaner and firmer.

However, there is a more serious side to bleeding gums. In some extreme cases, bleeding gums may be the result of oral cancer. If the bleeding is otherwise unexplained this could be a sign that something is seriously wrong. If you are unsure why your gums are bleeding i.e you haven’t recently started to floss for the first time, then it is always important that you visit a Molesey dentist for a check up. The chances are it will be nothing serious but it is always better to be safe than sorry

Molesey dentist advises on how to keep your gums healthy

admin — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 05:29:37 +0000

Keeping your gums healthy isn’t an easy job, and you are the only person, who can do this important job in oral care, says a Molesey dentist. The most important thing to remember is that once your gums recede the damage is done and is irreparable, not even your dentist can save them. The best you can hope for is to be able to keep the periodontal disease at bay and slow its progress. Just brushing alone won’t solve the problem of keeping the gums healthy, it needs much more of an effort and that must include flossing in between and around the back of the teeth. Plaque is the enemy of gums, and a build up of plaque will not just weaken the root of the tooth, but it allows the gums to become soft and that’s when they are prone to cuts. Once a gum is cut then bacteria can infect the inside and that’s when the problems really start, if an infection isn’t dealt with straight away then a more serious problem like an abscess will occur. Receding of the gums leaves the tooth and its root exposed to the build up of tartar, this is a hardened version of the dead bacteria that starts off producing acid that eats away at our enamel. Tartar is scraped off when we go for our 6 monthly check up, but by then the damage is usually already done. Flossing at night is the most important job in oral hygiene care, for when we sleep we stop producing saliva that neutralises acid production. It is when we are asleep that the most damage is done to our teeth and gums. The gums are as important as our teeth are, as they protect them from the harshness of what we put in our mouths, therefore it is a good idea to look after them well.

Protect your gums from disease at a Surbiton dentist

admin — Sat, 09 Jan 2010 18:26:00 +0000

Gum disease is extremely common in the UK, affecting roughly three quarters of all adults above the age of 35. This shocking statistic is backed up by another one in the fact that gum disease, not tooth decay, is responsible for more lost teeth in the UK. These are worrying facts and made all the more concerning that gum disease is becoming more common among younger patients, especially teenagers who are not cleaning their teeth sufficiently.

There are two types of gum disease that are categorised by the severity of the symptoms. Gingivitis is the milder form of the disease characterised by irritated or sore gums, and in some cases, bleeding gums. This can mostly be addressed by improved cleaning methods, which will prevent any further damage. However, if gingivitis is left to worsen and not addressed by attention from the dentist and improved cleaning, it will become periodontitis which is a much more serious concern. Periodontitis has symptoms ranging from infected tissue, receding gums and loose teeth. It needs to be treated with special medical attention that can include anti-biotics to kill the infection and even hospitalisation in severe cases.

If gum disease is not spotted early by a Surbiton dentist and treated accordingly it can result in tooth loss, and with nearly half the people in the UK over the age of 45 having lost at least one tooth it is clear that we may not be taking the threat seriously enough.

The message is clear. To protect our gums and teeth we must do more to keep them healthy by cleaning them properly and keeping up regular appointments at the dentist.

Surbiton dentist can offer advice on gum contouring

admin — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 10:25:44 +0000

Healthy looking gums frame the teeth. This framing of the teeth is just as important as the framing of a picture. Sometimes overly large or misshapen gums can lead to an appearance known as a gummy smile. This excess of gingival tissue affects 7% of adult males and 14% of females when in full smile. Although there is nothing wrong with the teeth themselves, the symmetrical appearance of the gums is just as important to a great smile as the teeth and a gummy smile can often be a source of embarrassment.

The overgrowth of gum tissue can be caused by several factors. It is often nothing more than a hereditary disposition but it can be caused by some common blood pressure medication. Excessive gum tissue can easily be treated by a process known as gum contouring or lifting.

This treatment consists of applying a local anaesthetic to the gums, and a laser is used to remove the small amounts of excess gum tissue and to reshape the edges of the gums. This is usually carried out on the six front teeth on the top row, which are usually most visible when smiling. Discomfort to the patient is kept to a minimum, as the blood vessels are sealed by the laser, allowing for a speedy healing process.

There may be occasion when tissue reshaping alone is not enough to solve the problem. In these circumstances the bone at the root of the front six teeth itself may have to be reduced. This is to make sure that the gums are the standard three millimeters from the bone. If this bone is not reduced there is a chance that the gum tissue may grow back. Although more complicated than a simple gum lift, it is still relatively comfortable for the patient.

Although not completely without risk, gum contouring is a relatively painless way to achieve the smile you always wanted. Surbiton dentist will be able to explain the treatment in more detail and assess whether gum contouring could be effective for you.

Interesting Facts on Preventing Gum Diseases by Surbiton Dentist

admin — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 17:44:14 +0000

People often neglect oral hygiene due to which plaque and tartar get deposited on the teeth. Plaque is a white coating present in the teeth which can eventually lead to the destruction of the enamel. You have to remove this deposition regularly to keep your teeth well protected from infections and diseases. Daily brushing and flossing will help in maintaining a beautiful smile.

Nutrition plays an important role in protecting your teeth against foreign bodies. Let me explain to you a few food substances which will provide you a healthy mouth. These criteria are laid down by the dentist in Surbiton.

• Celery- Chewing this food substance will help in increasing the saliva in your mouth which will neutralize the Streptococcus bacteria. They are responsible for the formation of cavities in your teeth. You can try a snack of raw celery and carrots daily to keep your teeth healthy.
• Cheese- It contains calcium, low carbohydrate and phosphate which balances the ph levels in your mouth. It also rebuilds the tooth and enamel and prevents gum diseases.
• Green Tea- It contains catechins which kill the bacteria that turn the sugar present in the food substance into plaque. Regular consumption of green tea will also help to control your bad breath.
• Kiwi- It contains vitamin C which has many actions on the teeth. If adequate amount of this vitamin is not taken it will loosen the collagen network of the gums resulting in plaque and tartar accumulation.

You should take care of your teeth as they are an important organ in the body. Maintaining a healthy diet is one of the important factors in keeping your teeth free from diseases.

Facts on Rheumatoid Arthritis and Gum Disease in Weybridge

admin — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 17:44:07 +0000

If you have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, it is important that you visit your Weybridge dentist to check for gum disease.

Recent studies and researches have revealed that individuals diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis are eight times more prone to periodontal or gum disease than individuals not suffering from the inflammatory disorder.

The dental experts believe that rheumatoid arthritis patients are more at risk for gum disease because of manual dexterity problems which prevents them from establishing proper oral hygiene regimen.

In addition, they also think that since both conditions are systemic in nature, there could be a link. The study was published in the Journal of Periodontology in July 2008.

Periodontal or gum disease has also been linked to higher risk for heart attack and stroke. With the many complications that this oral condition can result to if left untreated, it is vital that you ensure proper dental care that include:

• Visits to your dentist at least twice a year for professional cleaning
• Following treatment instructions if you are diagnosed with periodontal disease
• Establishing a health lifestyle that includes a well-balanced diet and regular physical activity

If you are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, you should inform your dentist about your condition so that a proper oral care program can be designed for you.

By having your oral health monitored and checked regularly, you can minimize the risk for gum diseases.

Gum Disease in Shepperton Linked to Heart Attack

admin — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 17:39:50 +0000

There are literally millions of people suffering from gum disease due to improper oral care. Also called periodontal disease, this oral condition has actually been linked to heart attack. In order to avoid such serious complications and risks, it is considered smart to visit your Shepperton dentist regularly.

Periodontal or gum disease is usually characterized by the following symptoms:

• Bad breath
• Tender or swollen gums
• Bleeding gums
• Sensitive teeth
• Receding gums
• Loose teeth

A lot of studies have revealed that individuals with periodontal disease are four times more likely to have a heart attack compared to those who do not have such oral condition.

Oral bacteria that cause gum disease enter the blood stream and attach to the coronary arteries particularly on the fatty plaques. This could increase build up and result to inflammation of the heart blood vessels, which in turn could result to increased risk for heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular problems.

Although periodontal or gum disease is currently considered to be a serious condition, it is important to remember that it is preventable and treatable. Preventive measures include:

• Regular visits to dentist
• Avoiding tobacco
• Eating well-balanced diet
• Proper home oral care

On the other hand, treatments for periodontal or gum diseases that can minimize risk for heart attack include:

• Professional dental scaling and cleaning
• Antibiotics
• Mouthwash
• Surgery
• Bone or tissue grafts

You need not put yourself at risk for heart attack and stroke. Visit your dentist today and ensure 100% oral health.

Stop the Progression of Receding Gums When You Visit A Weybridge Dentist

admin — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 09:00:29 +0000

Aside from being unsightly, receding gums will eventually lead to tooth loss. Because your gums tend to recede slowly, it is very important to make sure they are examined during routine dental exams. In most cases, if your dentist spots it early enough, you will be able to avoid some of the more severe consequences of receding gums.

When you visit a Weybridge dentist, you can learn how to brush your teeth without causing gum injuries. Typically, when you brush back and forth, it can make your gums retract from your teeth. In most cases, you will be better served by using a soft brush, and then using gentle downstrokes near the gumline. This will remove food particles without causing so much damage to your gums.

Unfortunately, if your gums have receded by a significant amount, they will be unable to support your teeth. This may lead to cavities developing under the gums, as well as an increase in infections. Your dentist may have to graft new tissue in order to bring the area back to a healthy condition. In some cases, this tissue can be taken from other parts of your mouth, as well as from skin on other parts of your body. After the graft heals, your dentist may need to reshape the new tissue in order to create a perfect fit.

For the most part, you should be able to prevent receding gums from causing tooth loss later in life. that said, if you have not observed proper oral care, your dentist may need to take some additional steps in order to restore your gums to a condition where they can support your teeth. Since receding gums become more obvious as you reach middle age, it is very important to make sure you address this issue in order to keep your teeth intact and healthy for the rest of your life.

Weybridge Dentists Help Patients with Gum Disease

admin — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 12:18:32 +0000

Gum disease(s) occur when bacteria and plaque build-up on the teeth and gums over a period on time. If these are not removed with proper oral hygiene practices, there is a time when this build-up cannot be defended, and gum disease occurs. Your Weybridge dentist will perform a complete oral examination, X-rays, and a complete periodontal charting of your teeth, gums, and the rest of your mouth. If your Weybridge dentist finds any of the following signs and symptoms of your gums, you will be classified as having gum disease. These signs are; bleeding upon probing, gum swelling, redness, pus around the gum, and gingival and/or periodontal pockets greater then 3 mm deep. Gum disease can be reversed if treated properly and on time. If your Weybridge dentist observes any bone loss, instead of being classified as gingivitis, your gums will be classified as having periodontitis. Periodontitis cannot be reversed, however it can be arrested. You should visit your Weybridge dental clinic to make sure that you receive treatment for your gum disease before it progresses to the point where your bone is lost around your teeth and they become loose, abscessed, or cause halitosis.
A good way to prevent gum disease from occurring is to properly brush your teeth at least twice daily for 2 minutes and make sure that you floss at least once daily. Your Weybridge dentist and dental hygienist will teach you the proper brushing and flossing methods. Use recommended oral care products and toothpastes. If your gum disease is very bad and you have oral bone loss, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist for treatment.

Kingston Upon Thames Dental Clinic Treats Gum Disease

admin — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 22:19:26 +0000

Gum disease (or gingivitis) is relatively common in the U.K. Gingivitis occurs when specific bacteria, their by- and end- products, and dental plaque, cause an inflammatory reaction in the gum tissues that the body’s normal immune system cannot defend against. Several symptoms of gum disease are; swelling, redness, heat, pain, and spontaneous bleeding and pus on the gums around the teeth. Gum disease is influenced by bacteria and plaque, and altered by the body’s defence mechanisms, or lack thereof. Gum disease is treatable and reversible if treated early enough. If not adequately treated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which then involves the formation of periodontal pockets, and loss of oral bone, and periodontal ligament around the tooth or teeth.
Anaerobic bacteria (i.e., bacteria that don’t like oxygen) are most often responsible for gum disease and periodontal disease. An inflammatory reaction occurs when these bacteria produce certain by-products and end-products. Gum disease and periodontal disease can go unnoticed until bleeding gums, pain, abscesses and/or bad breath occurs. Your nutrition and diet can suffer from the pain or mobile teeth.
Prevention is the best approach. However, various treatments are available at your Kingston Upon Thames Dental Clinic. Your Kingston Upon London dentist recommends brushing and flossing your teeth two times a day for at least two minutes each time to remove as much bacteria and plaque as possible. Make sure to have your teeth and gums checked twice a year and professional teeth cleanings during those times. Your Kingston Upon Thames may refer you to a periodontist (i.e., a gum specialist) if your gum problems are too advanced. Treatment may include scaling and root planning, antibiotics use, and/or surgery to resolve the gum disease.