Kingston Upon Thames Dental Clinic Treats Gum Disease

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.