Gum Disease Prevention

Daily Removal of Dental Plaque

Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums, it often presents as red, puffy, bleeding gums and is caused by dental plaque being left on the gum line. People will often notice their gums bleeding when they brush of floss but cant always tell where they are going wrong; until a visit to the dentist reveals plaque present along the gum line that has caused the gums to become red and swollen.

Twice daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste along the gum line and once a day flossing will keep plaque away and help keep gums pink and healthy. When gums are healthy they should’t bleed when brushing.

Regular Professional Removal of Dental Tartar

Dental tartar cannot be removed at home with brushing and/or flossing because it is hard like cement and it sticks to the tooth surface at the gum line and underneath the gums.

Dental tartar causes gum disease (periodontal disease) which is loss of bone surrounding the teeth by causing an inflammatory response in the gums and causes bone loss and teeth can become loose.

Regular professional cleaning every 6 months is important to remove tartar. Tartar present under the gums may require deeper cleaning from the root surface and a referral to a gum specialist. Your dentist will let you know if this is required.

Some patients are at a higher risk for developing periodontal disease such as people who smoke or who have diabetes.
Smoking destroys the bone holding teeth in and is one of the biggest causes of early tooth loss.
Medical conditions such as diabetes combined with calculus increases bone loss.
It is important if you have any complex medical conditions or if you smoke you have regular check and clean appointments to reduce and control your risk of periodontal disease.