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Did you know that most of the population is effected by gum disease
at some stage during their lives.
- Nearly 80% of the UK population have gum disease.
- Gum disease is more of a problem than tooth
decay in adults
- Gum disease is the biggest cause of tooth loss
in the UK
- Gum disease effects woman as much as men
- Only 48% of the population visit the dentist
regularly
It is the infection of the tissue surrounding
the teeth, the gums. This is caused by the bacteria in plaque being
left behind where the gum meets the tooth. It is usually called
gingivitis & at later stages of severity periodontal disease,
these are different stages of gum disease. Are your gums are red,
& swollen? Do your gums sometimes bleed when you brush them?
Does your breath smell? If you answer yes to these questions then
you have some form of gum disease. Gum disease may not hurt but
if left untreated you will get toothache & may lose your teeth.
Remember, healthy gums are smooth & stippled & do not bleed
when you brush them.
You need to visit the dentist who will then
refer you to our hygienist. The hygienist will thoroughly clean
& polish your teeth & advise you on how to look after your
teeth & gums to keep your gums healthy. This may include advice
on how to use other dental products such as floss or dental sticks.
At Wollaton Dental Care we monitor your gums regularly using a special
instrument to measure 7 score your gum health.
Poorly fitting dentures can make gum disease worse. You can also
become more prone to gum disease during pregnancy & with disease
such as diabetes. Keeping plaque to a low level should minimize
the risk. Smoking makes gum disease worse, & may mask early
signs.
Brush your teeth at least twice a day
Use floss or wood sticks daily
Visit the dentist every 6 months
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