What does gum disease look like?

Gum diseases are prevalent human diseases and affect most people during their lives. Gum disease is caused by the body’s reaction to bacteria that build up in the mouth and cause inflammation.

The good news is that excellent home cleaning and regular visits to the periodontist can help prevent gum diseases and limit the damage it can cause if it appears.

The bad news is that if your gums are left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss – which means your smile becomes less attractive, and you can have problems with eating food and speaking. 

Did you know that untreated gum disease can increase your suffering of severe conditions like diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, and cerebrovascular disease?

Important 

So, it is essential to get a professional assessment of your gum health and follow any recommended treatment plan, supporting this up with good home care by cleaning your teeth and gums correctly as advised by your periodontist.

There are different levels of gum disease. 

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is inflamed gums that appear swollen and reddish and may bleed. You may first notice a difference in your gums as they develop as a reaction to bacteria (dental plaque) that build upon the teeth.

Advanced periodontitis

If your gums are left untreated, gingivitis can develop into a more severe form of gum disease called periodontitis. It is generally a painless disease. The inflammation creeps under the gums and travels down the roots of the teeth. It then erodes the bone and causes permanent damage. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to teeth becoming loose and eventually falling out.

People with type-2 diabetes are more likely to suffer from periodontitis and many other diseases. But there are many risk factors that patients can address by changing behaviour like smoking, poor diet, and stress, which can contribute to the development of gum disease.

Multiple gum (Gingival) recessions

Another common problem is receding gums (gingival recession) which leads to the exposure of the roots. As well as being unattractive from an aesthetic point of view, the gingival recession. But they can be treated with various surgical procedures covering the roo

If you have concerns over your oral health and think you may have gum disease it is essential to get a professional assessment of your gum health. The consultation (fee is just £155) can put your mind at rest and we can discuss your gums in great depth.  If you have the disease we can put an action plan together. Remember this disease will not disappear on its own. Request a call back here