The simplest form of gum disease, gingivitis, is often a reaction to a build-up of plaque on the teeth. Plaque is a soft, sticky substance made up of bacteria which live on the sugars from things we eat and drink. Plaque can build up in difficult-to-clean areas, especially at the contact areas between the teeth. It is important to clean these areas daily with floss, tape or small interdental ‘Bottle’ brushes. The earliest sign of disease is bleeding of the gums. They may also look red or swollen. Gingivitis can often be cured simply with good mouth hygiene – brushing twice a day and using other mouth hygiene aids, such as floss and a medicated mouthwash, as advised by your dentist or hygienist. Occasionally, even in healthy mouths, gums may become infected or sore, and you may notice an unpleasant metallic taste. This is acute gingivitis, and you should seek urgent treatment.
As the disease progresses, the tissues holding teeth in place start to break down and pockets in the gum form around the teeth, which allow even more plaque to gather. This stage is called chronic periodontitis. It is usually painless and can become quite severe if not treated, resulting in teeth coming loose, appearing to move to a more position or to fall out. Gum disease can start when you are a child, but chronic periodontitis is normally only a problem in adults.
Scaling and polishing by a dentist or hygienist can remove tartar and stains. This will help you keep your mouth clean. In more severe cases of gum disease, deep cleaning below the gum line by a dentist or hygienist may be necessary. Occasionally, surgery is required in which the gum is re-shaped under local anaesthetic, to allow affected areas to be treated. If gum disease had progressed too far, the tooth or teeth involved may have to be removed.
“Anna has been my Hygienist since she started working at the Manor Dental Practice and has always achieved the highest standards in looking after my dental hygiene. Anna is a very talented, intelligent and happy…”
“What a wonderful team! They provide a comfortable environment, are personable and incredibly knowledgeable. Highly recommend!”
“I have recently moved to the area and needed emergency dental treatment. On the recommendation of my new neighbours, I went to Manor Dental Practice. Gloria, the receptionist, was incredibly helpful, and I was seen…”
“Recently transferred across to this practice and have been super impressed with the team. I've had a check-up and hygienist this far, and the service has been the best I've experienced. Great advice and support…”
“Friendly, professional service. Full explanation of work was given, very gentle treatment and a great, friendly dental team. Highly recommended.”
“I would like to highly commend this practice. I have been to some pretty dreadful dentists over the years, and this practice is a refreshing change. Everyone there (without exception) is always (without exception) friendly…”
“In Bath on a visit and needed to attend an emergency appointment for my family member. We were treated with kindness and professionalism by all members of staff from the call through to payment. Excellent…”
“Cracked half of my filling and decided to register and get treatment with Manor Dental. X-rays and a scan of my teeth were taken professionally. Decided to have a filling without injections and virtually pain-free.…”
“Had an emergency appointment for a broken front tooth. It was seen that morning, and the tooth was repaired. Faultless service and care. Highly recommend.”
“A very friendly and helpful dental practice that I would highly recommend! Have had regular check-ups and remedial works carried out that I have been extremely happy with - and no pain at all! Also,…”
“Anna has been my Hygienist since she started working at the Manor Dental Practice and has always achieved the highest…”
“What a wonderful team! They provide a comfortable environment, are personable and incredibly knowledgeable. Highly recommend!”
“I have recently moved to the area and needed emergency dental treatment. On the recommendation of my new neighbours, I…”
“Recently transferred across to this practice and have been super impressed with the team. I've had a check-up and hygienist…”
“Friendly, professional service. Full explanation of work was given, very gentle treatment and a great, friendly dental team. Highly recommended.”
“I would like to highly commend this practice. I have been to some pretty dreadful dentists over the years, and…”
“In Bath on a visit and needed to attend an emergency appointment for my family member. We were treated with…”
“Cracked half of my filling and decided to register and get treatment with Manor Dental. X-rays and a scan of…”
“Had an emergency appointment for a broken front tooth. It was seen that morning, and the tooth was repaired. Faultless…”
“A very friendly and helpful dental practice that I would highly recommend! Have had regular check-ups and remedial works carried…”
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