Gum Disease Treatment in London Waterloo

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a group of inflammatory conditions affecting the gum tissue surrounding the teeth. In the early stages (also called gingivitis), the gums become red, swollen and may potentially bleed. In its later stages, when the disease becomes more serious, (also called periodontitis), the gum tissue can pull away from the teeth, which can lead to bone loss and loosening of teeth. In some cases, teeth may fall out altogether. Gum disease can also cause bad breath.

Gum diseases or periodontal disease is typically caused by bacteria, which infects the gum tissue surrounding the teeth. Factors that can lead to gum disease can include poor oral hygiene, smoking, HIV/AIDS, diabetes, family history of gum diseases, and also certain medications. Gum diseases can be diagnosed by a dentist, who will inspect the gum tissue surrounding the teeth carefully – both visually and also with a probe. They may also take X-rays to look for signs of bone loss around the teeth.

Treatment for gum diseases typically involves maintaining good oral hygiene and having regular professional standard teeth cleaning, specifically around the affected gum tissue. We recommend patients suffering from gum diseases to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing their teeth daily. In some cases antibiotics may need to be prescribed or dental surgery recommended.

Gum disease is a common dental condition, with typically nearly half of the population above the age of 30 affected to some extent. For people over 65, typically 70% of the population may have the condition.