How your dentist can help you beat gum disease

Regular visits to the dentist and hygienist are essential in the battle against gum disease. At Harley Street Dental Clinic we offer full general dental and dental hygiene services, as well as providing treatment from our in-house specialist periodontist (a dentist who specialises in the treatment of gum conditions) Dr Pedja Pavlovic.

Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in UK adults. It is a very prevalent condition, which most people will experience at some point in their life. When caught in the early stages it is easy to treat and manage with a combination of visits to the hygienist and dentist, and a stringent home care routine.

gum-diseaseWhat causes gum disease?

Gum disease is caused by the build-up of dental plaque and tartar on the teeth, which irritates and inflames the gums. A bad diet that is deficient in nutrients, smoking, and medical conditions including diabetes and stress can all increase your chances of developing gum disease, as can tooth grinding.

The early signs of gum disease are hard to spot but include swollen, red gums, bleeding when you brush your teeth, and bad breath. As soon as you spot any of these symptoms you should book an appointment with a dentist at our Harley Street clinic.

What will your dentist do?

Your dentist or hygienist will thoroughly clean your teeth to remove all traces of plaque or tartar. They will also talk to you about the most efficient way to clean your teeth at home, including the use of special devices such as interdental brushes to clean between your teeth. You may also be advised to use a medicated mouthwash.

Untreated gum disease can develop into the more serious form, periodontal disease, which can cause tooth loss. At Harley Street Dental Clinic our specialist periodontist can treat even complex cases of gum disease to help preserve your smile.