Gum disease (periodontal disease) is the leading cause of tooth loss in the UK and affects over half of UK adults to some degree. Most people with early gum disease are unaware they have it - it is often painless in its early stages. Early treatment is the key to preventing permanent damage.
The Two Stages of Gum Disease
Gingivitis is the first stage - inflammation limited to the gum tissue. The gums become red, swollen, and bleed on brushing or flossing. At this stage, the damage is fully reversible with professional hygiene treatment and improved home care.
Periodontitis is the second, more serious stage - inflammation has spread to destroy the bone and connective tissue that support the teeth. Bone loss is irreversible. Without treatment, teeth become loose and eventually fall out or require extraction.
⚠️ Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in UK adults - more common than tooth decay. If you notice bleeding gums, do not ignore it. Bleeding is not normal and indicates active inflammation.
Signs of Gum Disease
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis) despite good oral hygiene
- Gum recession - teeth appearing longer than they used to
- Loose teeth or teeth that have shifted position
- Gaps appearing between teeth
- Pus between teeth and gums
Risk Factors
Smoking is the single biggest risk factor for periodontitis - smokers are 3 - 6 times more likely to develop severe gum disease than non-smokers, and gum disease progresses faster in smokers. Poorly controlled diabetes significantly increases gum disease risk. Stress, certain medications (particularly those causing dry mouth), and genetic predisposition are also risk factors.
Treatment at Accord Dental Practice
Treatment begins with a thorough periodontal assessment - measuring pocket depths around every tooth, assessing bone levels with X-rays, and identifying risk factors. Our hygienist provides detailed oral hygiene instruction and professional scaling (removing tartar from above and below the gumline). For more advanced cases, root surface debridement under local anaesthetic cleans the root surfaces within deeper pockets. Regular 3 - 4 monthly hygiene appointments then maintain the improvement.
If you are concerned about your gum health, book a check-up or hygiene appointment at Accord Dental Practice in Camberley. Learn about our hygiene treatments.