An introduction to
Gum Disease
Gum disease is caused by a build-up of plaque on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky substance that contains bacteria. When left to build-up, the bacteria can enter and infect the gum tissue. Most adults in the uk have gum disease to some extent; and it is exacerbated by smoking, poor diet and drinking. In its early stages gum disease is known as gingivitis. If gingivitis isn’t treated, a condition called periodontitis can develop. This affects more tissues that support teeth and hold them in place.
Symptoms
- Bleeding gums can occur when switching to a new toothbrush or when you first implement flossing into your oral health routine. However, if bleeding occurs more than once a week and the amount of blood increases each time you brush, you may have the start of gum disease and you should go to your dentist immediately for treatment.
- Bad breath: gum disease often starts without any feeling of pain, which makes it a hard problem to detect. However, if you have continual bad breath this could be a definite sign of gum disease.
- Loose teeth and gum pockets: If periodontitis develop, the bone in your jaw may be damaged and small spaces can open up between the gum and teeth. Your teeth can become loose and pockets of skin can open up around the teeth. If periodontal disease is allowed to progress tooth loss and gum deterioration is often the final stage.
Treatment
- Hygiene Treatment or Scale and Polish: This is a professional treatment where deposits of plaque and tartar are firstly removed from the teeth. This is done with an ultrasound scraper, followed by specialised hand-held instruments to scrape away any stubborn remains. This is followed by a polishing step which removes stains leaving teeth bright and shiny, but it also smooths away minor imperfections and patches of rough texture on the teeth to protect against further plaque build-up.
- Deep Cleaning or Periodontal Cleaning: Regular cleaning removes plaque and tartar from above the gumline. A deep cleaning, on the other hand, removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline. Gum disease causes a space or gap between your teeth and gums, where tartar and plaque can become trapped. Cleaning below the gum line removes this build-up.
- Affordable dental membership schemes
- Same day emergency appointments
- Evening and weekend appointments
- Convenient, free on-site parking
- Disabled Access
- Privately owned independent clinic
- General dentistry, cosmetic dentistry and aesthetic services
FAQs
We have a range of membership plans designed to fit patients needs. View our dental plans for more information.
For all the treatments we prescribe we generate a bespoke treatment plan for the patient with costs outlined. A summary of our general charges can be found on our treatment prices page.
We are a fully independent practice and only accept private patients. We do offer affordable dental membership plans to help spread with the cost of
your dental care.
You can find us in the heart of the south Derbyshire Village of Repton. We are located at the crossroads of Well Lane, Pinfold Lane, High Street and Main Street.
