Gingivitis

Healthy gums should be a nice pink colour, tight around your teeth with no bleeding evident.

Symptoms of gum disease

Gum disease does not necessarily hurt and many patients have no idea that they are suffering from this disease.

The first symptoms patients can experience are redness, swollen gums and bleeding after brushing or flossing.

This stage of gum disease is called gingivitis

Causes of gum disease

• This is the sticky residue on your teeth which appears if they are not maintained correctly
• This is one of the major causes of gum disease in the UK
• Pregnancy
• Diabetes
• Malnutrition
• Chemotherapy
• A weakened immune system e.g. HIV

How do you treat gingivitis? 

• regularly visiting your Hygienist and Dentist– at least once every 6 months, but more frequently if necessary

• Good Oral hygiene.  This will be discussed with you by your Hygienist and she will help educate you exactly how to look after your own tooth to help maintain your gums.

If gingivitis is allowed to progress it will get worse and eventually start to eat away at the bone surrounding your teeth, this is known as periodontitis.

If you have an emergency contact the practice on 01904 653 284 and our team will help you. Out of hours during weekends and weekday evenings we operate an emergency on call system, and you will be directed to the appropriate care.