Coping With Gum Disease

This is a very common condition where the gums become swollen, sore or infected

- Dr Gill Jenkins

Healthy gums should be pink and firm. Gum disease is caused by a build-up of plaque, a sticky substance containing bacteria. Consuming carbohydrate-rich food and drink allows plaque bacteria to produce acid, slowly breaking down the enamel, causing decay. Plaque is removed by brushing and flossing, but hardens to form tartar if not removed, which sticks much more firmly, needing removal by a dentist or hygienist. Chronic conditions such as diabetes, immune disorders and chemotherapy put you at greater risk, as does smoking, drinking heavily, having a poor diet and pregnancy. Medications that dry the mouth, such as antidepressants and antihistamines, can also be detrimental.

Mild gum disease is usually managed through good oral hygiene, brushing your teeth at least twice daily and flossing regularly. Everyone should be able to access good-quality NHS dental services. See the hygienist, who will give your teeth a thorough clean called a ‘scale and polish’, scraping away plaque and tartar, then will polish your teeth to remove stains. Rarely, root planing (debridement) is required to deepclean under the gums, removing bacteria from the roots of your teeth. You may need a local anaesthetic first. The dentist will do a thorough examination to check the health of teeth and gums, including using a thin metal stick with a bend in one end (periodontal probe) between your teeth, and may take X-rays to check the teeth, roots and jawbone condition.

Ways to help

• Clean your teeth, brushing with fluoride toothpaste, for two minutes twice daily. Dental floss, interdental brushes or picks help to remove food debris from between the teeth.

• It doesn’t matter if you use an electric or manual toothbrush, but some find it easier to clean their teeth thoroughly with an electric toothbrush.