Periodontal Disease or Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease caused by bacterial infection. If left untreated it can lead to bad breath and eventually tooth loss.
It is the most common cause of tooth loss in adults, mainly because it is often present without causing any pain. Bleeding gums, bad breath, and loose or drifting teeth are all signs of potential underlying periodontal disease.
Gum Disease is caused by plaque which is a sticky film of bacteria. If plaque is not brushed away, gums will start to swell, bleed and begin to slip downward away from teeth. This movement creates pockets in between teeth and gums, which eventually fill with more plaque and cause a further deterioration in the condition.
Since dental plaque is the principal cause of gum disease, treatment is focused on plaque control. This is achieved through improved oral hygiene and the cleansing of the teeth and their roots to remove plaque and tartar from under the gums.
Gum Disease is often labelled the silent disease as many people are unaware they have it until the advanced stages. While the signs and symptoms are extremely variable they may include:
- Reddening and swelling of the gums
- Gums that bleed on brushing
- Loose teeth
- A bad taste in the mouth
- Bad breath
At Leeds City Dentalcare we adopt a high priority towards the active treatment of gum disease. Our dentists and hygienists work closely together in order to obtain the best results for our patients. The key to successful treatment is often dealing with the problem in a timely matter, so if you feel that you may have a gum problem it would be advisable to seek a professional opinion without delay. A consultation with one of our dentists in conjunction with a few basic x-rays is often all that is required to advise you of the health of your gums.
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