Have your gums been sore of late? Have you spotted blood when you brush or are your gums more swollen than usual? These symptoms are linked to gum disease, one of the most common oral diseases. If you spot signs of gum disease, we strongly recommend getting in touch and making an appointment.

What causes gum disease?

Gum disease is a common oral disease, which is caused by harmful bacteria. In most cases, gum disease is linked to poor oral hygiene, which results in the formation of plaque. Plaque is a sticky substance, which is made when food debris and saliva combine with bacteria. When the bacteria feed, they release acids, which irritate the gums. This causes your gums to become painful and inflamed. There are two main forms of gum disease: gingivitis, a mild form, and periodontal disease, an advanced form of gum disease.

What to do if you have sore or swollen gums?

Mild gum disease is relatively easy to manage, but it can quickly become more advanced if it is left untreated. This is why it is so important to see your dentist if you do spot signs that may be caused by gum disease. If you notice spots of blood when you clean your teeth, your gums are sore or they are swollen, we advise you to book an appointment. Our dentists can have a good look at your teeth and gums and if you do have early symptoms, they can administer treatment before gingivitis turns into periodontitis. In advanced cases, signs such as an unpleasant taste in the mouth and gum recession may also be noticeable.

If you think you may have gum disease, don’t wait until your next scheduled dental check- call us today and we will see you as soon as possible!