Gum disease: early signs and when to see a dentist
By Dr Faiz Azizan Data last checked How we list clinics
Gum disease often starts as gingivitis, with red, swollen gums that bleed when you brush. Gingivitis can be reversed with good oral hygiene, but untreated it can progress to periodontitis and damage the supporting bone. See a dentist if your gums bleed regularly or you notice loose teeth.
Early signs
Bleeding when brushing or flossing, red or swollen gums, persistent bad breath and gums that look as though they are pulling away from the teeth.
Gingivitis and periodontitis
Gingivitis affects the gums only and can usually be reversed with thorough daily cleaning and professional cleaning. Periodontitis involves loss of the tissues and bone that support the teeth and needs professional treatment and long-term care.
Treatment
A dentist or hygienist can clean below the gum line and advise on cleaning at home. Smoking and some health conditions raise the risk, so tell your dentist about them.
Questions to ask your dentist
- Do I have gingivitis or periodontitis, and how do you know?
- What cleaning routine do you recommend for me at home?
- Will I need a hygienist, and how often?
- How will you monitor whether my gums are improving?
Hertfordshire dentists that mention this treatment
Compare practices whose own websites mention this treatment, by town:
- Gum Care in Watford
- Gum Care in St Albans
- Gum Care in Hemel Hempstead
- Gum Care in Stevenage
- Gum Care in Bishop's Stortford
Credentials and treatments on those pages are stated by each practice and are not verified; see the methodology.
Sources
This guide is general information compiled by an independent directory, not clinical advice. See the disclaimer and methodology.