Hygiene Services

Your Oral Hygiene is a priority for the Team at Ernevale House

What is periodontal (Gum) disease?

Periodontal disease is an inflammatory disease. The inflammation is part of the body's natural defence mechanisms and occurs in response to a build-up of plaque (bacteria) on the teeth. In some patients, this natural inflammatory process is too severe or poorly controlled and the inflammation actually damages the supporting structures of the teeth, namely gum and supporting bone. Whilst we can control this process and stop the bone loss getting worse, the bone loss is usually irreversible.

What causes gum disease?

The main cause of gum disease is plaque - sticky deposits containing bacteria building up on the teeth.

Approximately 10% of the population are severely affected by periodontal disease and by the age of 60 around 80% of people will display some bone loss, albeit mild. There appears to be some genetic link with periodontal disease, with trends running in families. If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, then potentially your siblings are at increased risk of having the same problem and  your children may also be at increased risk. Ideally, they should all be screened and monitored for potential problems by their dentist. 

Other risk factors include:

  • Pregnancy, puberty, menopause and monthly period hormonal changes in women where gums become more sensitive with a higher risk of gum disease developing.
  • Health conditions such as diabetes, and those conditions affecting the immune system such as cancer or HIV.
  • Some medications affect saliva production and make the mouth dry, taking away the protective effect of saliva against gum disease. Some medications also affect gum tissue growth.
  • Smokers are more likely to have gum disease than non-smokers.
  • Poor oral hygiene - not brushing correctly - makes it easier for gum disease to develop.
  • A family history of gum disease can increase a person's risk.

What causes periodontal disease?

If gum disease is allowed to develop and isn't treated, periodontal disease can develop.

Gum disease and periodontal disease symptoms

Gum disease and periodontal disease symptoms appear at different stages and include:

Early stages - gum disease

  • Swollen or red gums
  • Sore gums
  • Gums bleeding when brushing teeth

Advanced stages - periodontal disease

  • Infected gums
  • Pockets forming between the teeth and gums
  • Receding Gums
  • Loose teeth
  • Bad breath
  • Gum abscess
  • Bad taste in the mouth, metallic taste
  • Changes to the bite and how the top and bottom sets of teeth fit together

Diagnosis

During a check-up your dentist will look for signs of gum disease, such as bleeding gums and receding gums. They will also complete a basic periodontal exam, measuring any pockets around your gums. This will enable them to tell the severity of your gum disease. They will then advise you accordingly.

Treatment

Mild gum disease can usually be treated with good oral hygiene - brushing the teeth correctly at least twice a day.

A dentist may recommend visiting a dental hygienist. They will address any concerns noted by the dentist and will then give the teeth a more thorough clean using special equipment and tools to remove any hardened plaque, called tartar.

Visit the dentist and hygienist as often as they recommend.

To help prevent plaque build-up in future, your dentist or hygienist will advise you with personalised oral hygiene tips and recommendations for types of toothbrushes, flossing, interdental brushes and mouthwashes.

What can you do to help?

 Your role in the management and stabilisation of the disease is crucial.  Good oral hygiene helps reduce the risk of gum disease with regular tooth brushing, and other steps your dentist or hygienist may recommend, such as flossing or using mouth wash. We will show you techniques aimed at helping you clean your teeth to a very high standard so that the bacteria levels are below the levels that triggers inflammation. Without this change in home care, our treatment cannot be successful. Controlling the risk factors outlined above is an important part of helping yourself control your disease. 

Other healthy habits and lifestyle changes can also help, including:

  • Stopping Smoking
  • Reducing stress to help the immune system and avoid problems like grinding teeth
  • Eating a healthy balanced diet.
  • Regular visits with your hygienist. 

Contact reception should you wish to book an appointment to see one of out three hygienists.