Our periodontists in Chelsea are here to help identify and treat periodontal disease which is widespread across the world, yet it is preventable and can be easily treated when found early enough.
Periodontal disease is another name for gum disease, which is caused by bacteria that collects at the gum line in the form of dental plaque. The plaque needs to be removed by brushing and cleaning between the teeth twice a day. If not properly cleaned, the gum starts to come away from the tooth - forming pockets that allow the plaque to grow below the gum line.
There are two major stages of periodontal disease - gingivitis and periodontitis. The earlier stage (gingivitis) is a mild form of gum disease caused by plaque build-up around the gum line which causes inflammation of the gums. If you neglect to brush or floss your teeth daily, this plaque build-up will trap bacteria and cause gum disease. Your gums will appear red and swollen and you may experience bleeding when you brush or floss. If properly treated, it may be reversed.
Left untreated, gingivitis turns into periodontitis. During this more destructive disease stage, the supporting bones and fibres that hold your teeth in place have been irreversibly damaged, as bacteria penetrate the deeper pockets of tissue. If the bone that supports the teeth is destroyed, the gums shrink and eventually the teeth become wobbly and fall out.
According to research, gum disease affects three-quarters of all adults over the age of 35 in the UK. Most people can get mild gum disease but some people are susceptible to more aggressive forms.
These include:
If left untreated, gum disease can lead to bad breath, loose teeth and painful gums. The best way to avoid or manage gum disease is by practising good oral hygiene and visiting a hygienist at American Smile regularly.
In addition, some types of prescription drugs may also increase the risk of gum disease so please mention during your visit to American Smile if you are taking any of the following:
Periodontal disease is usually pain-free (sometimes called ‘the silent disease’), so you may be unaware of it until your dentist or hygienist checks for it.
Here are some ‘red flags’ - symptoms you may notice that should raise concern:
If you smoke or take nicotine products, this may mask the first symptom of gum disease which is bleeding gums.
Treatment aims to reduce bacteria around your teeth and prevent the disease from getting worse. Generally though, treatment cannot replace the support your teeth have already lost.
Your gums will be healthier and you may notice such benefits as:
We are currently offering free gum health check-ups. During the check-up, our periodontal expert, Dr Suraj, will evaluate your gums for periodontal disease and recommend the appropriate treatment. You are welcome to book a slot to give your gums a full health check.
At our advanced dental clinic in Chelsea, Dr Suraj will help you through the screening as well as identify the best possible treatment option for your gums, should you need it. Please contact us to schedule an appointment if you are worried about any of the symptoms mentioned on this page.
Receding gums happen when the margin of the gum tissue surrounding the teeth wears away, exposing more of the tooth or the tooth's root. When gums recede, gaps can form between your gum and your tooth, allowing disease-causing bacteria to build up.
Long teeth
One of the early symptoms is the visible lengthening of your teeth. When gums recede because of periodontal disease, the teeth have the appearance of being much longer than normal. This can also be accompanied by the appearance of black spaces or gaps between your teeth.
Exposed roots
Exposed roots are another symptom and can be extremely sensitive and uncomfortable. They are often a sign of periodontal disease, or can be attributed to brushing too aggressively with a toothbrush with hard bristles.
Loose teeth
When you are suffering from receding gums you may notice your teeth become loose, which can be attributed to bacteria and periodontal disease under your gums around your teeth. As receding gums worsen, the gum pockets deepen due to the loss of an attachment structure.
Left untreated, gingivitis turns into periodontitis. During this more destructive disease stage the supporting bones and fibres that hold your teeth in place have been irreversibly damaged, as bacteria penetrate the deeper pockets of tissue.
If the bone that supports the teeth is destroyed, the gums shrink and eventually the teeth become wobbly and fall out.
Gum disease alone has been linked to strokes, respiratory disease, heart disease, diabetes and ulcers.
Studies show that one of the biggest symptoms of gum disease is swelling or inflammation. When inflammation occurs anywhere in your body, including your mouth, it can lead to hardened arteries so your swollen gums could very well lead to a greater risk of a heart attack.
Because our gums are filled with blood vessels, and our mouths are filled with bacteria, if you have gum disease this bacteria can enter your bloodstream through your inflamed blood vessels and trigger inflammation elsewhere in your body, including your heart, if left untreated.
We have combined the inside knowledge and experience of American, Brazilian, European and British dentistry to bring you the most advanced, evidence-based techniques to design a smile you will love and be empowered to maintain.
Happy Kids Dental has state-of-the-art dental clinics in Marylebone, Chelsea and Hammersmith. Our child-focussed dentists make the visit fun for kids and relaxing for adults.
Children love us and parents love us too! Book an appointment and see for yourself.
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