Gum Disease

Gum disease is a very common problem and almost everyone suffers from it to some degree. The earliest sign of gum disease is mild bleeding on tooth brushing. In the late stages of gum disease known as Periodontal disease, teeth are lost, abscesses appear and considerable pain can result.

Gum disease is caused by your body's reaction to the bacteria in plaque. As the disease progresses the bone supporting the teeth is lost. This bone loss leads to 'pockets' forming around the tooth root. These pockets can become infected with bacteria and can lead to pain, swelling and tooth loss.

Once pockets have formed the calculus or (tartar) found there can only be removed by a Dental professional. This is the role of the Dental Hygienist. We have the services of 3 at East Leigh Dental Care.

The good news is Gum disease is preventable and the progression of Periodontal disease can be halted.

Hearts and Gums

There is now considerable evidence that Gum disease and Heart disease are linked. The simplest explanation is that the Chronic disease process caused by Periodontal disease makes the blood 'stickier'. More antibodies and blood products are made, these result in narrowing of the coronary arteries and build up of Cholesterol. Some experts suggest cleaner mouths are more beneficial than stopping smoking.