Regular visits to the dentist: essential in the battle against gum disease

You need to visit your dentist regularly to guard against gum disease. At Harley Street Dental Clinic we have a periodontal specialist (a dental professional who specialises in treating conditions affecting the gums). Dr Pedja Pavlovic can treat even complex cases of gum disease, which have advanced from gingivitis to become periodontitis, or periodontal disease.

gum-disease-harley-streetSymptoms of gum disease

As with all conditions, the sooner gum disease is spotted, the easier it is to treat. The major problem is that the early signs can be hard to spot at home. At Harley Street Dental Clinic we focus on preventative dentistry, helping to stop problems before they start, so we are in a prime position to spot the early symptoms of gum disease.

Things to look out for at home include blood on your tooth brush or in the sink when you brush your teeth, swollen, red and painful gums. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should book an appointment with a dentist straight away.

Gum disease is caused by dental plaque, which can be prevented by a good home brushing and flossing routine, coupled with regular visits to the dentist and hygienist. The mild form of gum disease is called gingivitis and is relatively easy to treat and manage if caught early. The more serious form is periodontitis or periodontal disease, which can result in tooth loss.

Symptoms of periodontal disease include tooth ligaments starting to detach, destruction of the surrounding bone, teeth becoming wobbly or loose, and ultimately teeth falling out.

Dr Pavlovic at Harley Street Dental Clinic is highly experienced in treating the more serious forms of gum disease. If you have any of the symptoms of either gingivitis or periodontitis, don’t delay, book a consultation with us straight away.