What is gum disease?
The majority of the population in the UK suffer from some form of gum disease, which is a significant cause of tooth loss. Gingivitis and periodontitis are the two main forms of this disease. You can check for early signs of gum disease when you are brushing your teeth. If there is blood on your toothbrush or in the water when you are rinsing your mouth, this may indicate that you have a gum problem. Also, your gums may bleed when eating and your breath may become unpleasant. You should consult your dentist or hygienist to discuss ways of improving your gum health.

What causes gum disease?
Plaque and hard deposits of tartar are the main causes of gum disease. The most common reason for gum disease is that people do not clean their teeth and gums as often or as thoroughly, as they should, so it is essential that you maintain a good dental care routine to remove all of the plaque from your teeth. However, there are factors that will mean that some people are more likely to get gum disease, such as:

• Smoking and drinking excess amounts of alcohol, which are also linked with mouth cancer.
• Drugs and medicine and hormonal changes can affect your gums.
• Some diseases, such as diabetes can weaken gums and bones and therefore, increase the risk of disease.

What is gingivitis?
Gingivitis is a term used to describe the inflammation of gums. It is the first stage of gum disease, where the gums become red and swollen and may bleed when brushing your teeth.

What is periodontitis?
Periodontitis is a deeper form of gum disease that affects the bone supporting the teeth. Left untreated, periodontitis may eventually result in teeth having to be extracted, as some of the bone is lost and teeth become loose. You can prevent periodontal disease from getting worse by maintaining a good dental care routine and making regular visits to your dentist or hygienist.

What should I do if I suspect that I have gum disease?
You should visit your dentist for an examination, so that they can check your teeth and gums and prescribe what treatment is required. Usually the dentist will illustrate how to clean your teeth effectively in order to remove all of the plaque.

What can I do to help prevent gum disease?
Dentists also recommend using a small-headed toothbrush with 'rounded' bristles, so that it doesn't cause any damage to your gums. Brushing alone will not remove all the plaque from in between your teeth. Using dental floss is extremely useful here. Your dentist or hygienist is best placed to advise you on which cleaning methods are best for you.