Gum problems (periodontitis) begins as a "silent", slowly progressive disease of the gums, which affects nearly one in three adults in the UK. It is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, but over 80% of adults do not know this. Gingivitis is the early stage of the condition, which is above the gum-line and perodonitis is the severe form of the problem, which is below the gum-line..

What causes it?
It begins with bacteria, often present as plaque and calculus (tartar), which can be found in everyone's mouth. As these bacteria settle themselves on your gums they cause the gums to become inflamed, and eventually destroy the gums and bone which support your teeth.

What are the Symptoms?
The symptoms often can be subtle but here are a few warning sign:

1. Bleeding gums, especially on brushing and flossing.
2. Red, swollen or tender gums.
3. Bad breath.
4. Receding gums (long in the tooth!).
5. Formation of deep pockets between the teeth and gums.
6. Loose (slack) or drifting teeth.

Treating Gum Problems
Unfortunately at present the disorder cannot be reversed, however its progression can be slowed or stopped by a concerted effort between your dentist/hygienist and yourself. This can alleviate some of the symptoms described above, and prevent (further) loss of teeth.

Your dentist/hygienist can use scaling and root planning to clean away soft plaque and hard calculus deposits from the tooth surface and below the gum-line. This is done with hand instruments and ultra-sonic scalers (which produce water), often over several visits. You may also be prescribed antibiotics if it is severe

What you can do:

1. Brush your teeth for 2 minutes at least twice per day, ensuring that you clean along the gum-line between your teeth and gums (your dentist or hygienist can show you how to do this)
2. Stop smoking (as this is known to increase the risk of perio disease)
3. Floss your teeth daily
4. Visit your dentist/hygienist regularly, who will be able to answer any questions or worries you may have