Gum Disease

Gum disease is caused by plaque. Plaque is a biofilm of bacteria which forms on the surface of the teeth and gums. To prevent and treat gum disease, you need to make sure that you remove all the plaque from your teeth every day. This is usually done by brushing & flossing but your dentist may also recommend other techniques.

Smoking is a significant risk factor, and also a family history of gum disease is another factor. Diabetes and some medications can also increase your chances of getting gum disease. However, the main cause for most people is plaque – caused by poor teeth cleaning at home.

If you have already lost bone around the teeth, this bone will not be able to grow back fully. If you maintain perfect cleaning, any further loss of bone should be slow and may stop altogether. However, you must make sure that you remove all your plaque every day. Oral hygiene is the key. If oral hygiene is not maintained the periodontal disease can return. Remember to ask your dentist for gum disease advice.