Your gums are like cushions for your teeth; they surround the tooth from its crown to its root in the jaw and help to support a healthy mouth. Looking after your gums is just as important as looking after your teeth, and without routine cleaning gum disease can occur. These are the stages of gum disease:
- Red and swollen gums that bleed when you brush them are a sign of a type of gum disease, gingivitis.
- When gingivitis is left untreated it can develop further into a type of infection known as periodontitis, which affects the entire area surrounding the tooth, causing discomfort and difficulty when eating
- Eventually this kind of infection can lead to tooth loss and may require invasive procedures to replace the missing tooth.
Fortunately, this can be avoided by attending regular hygiene check-ups at the practice and maintaining a good daily hygiene routine. Brushing between the teeth, flossing and replacing your toothbrush every three months will also benefit your gum health.
Life Benefits
- Minimised risk of tooth loss.
- Reduced risk of developing tooth decay and need for fillings.
- Fresh, minty breath.