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// Dental Health


WHAT IS GUM DISEASE?


Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is preceded by gingivitis. Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gum which is caused by a build-up of plaque on the surfaces of your teeth. This then hardens into tartar which irritates the gums, causing them to become red, inflamed and easily bleed when brushed.


Gingivitis is reversible and a visit to your hygienist to remove the hard tartar deposits along with improved brushing and interdental cleaning will encourage the gums back to health. Some people are much more susceptible to developing tartar and, if gingivitis is left untreated, the levels of tartar will increase and spread to the root surfaces. The bacteria in the tartar will then cause destruction of the bone that supports the teeth in their sockets. This is called periodontitis and is irreversible; once the bone has been destroyed it is not possible for it to re-grow.


Periodontitis can be stabilised when it is treated by a hygienist, whereby they will remove the deposits both on the teeth and under the gum on the root surfaces. Debridement may involve removing the infected top layer of root surface in order to prevent further bone loss.


THE DENTIST@TUPSLEY 133 Quarry Road, Tupsley, Hereford, HR1 1SX T. 01432 343 158 www.thedentistattupsley.co.uk


If you have any concerns or queries about interdental cleaning, please contact The Dentist @ Tupsley on 01432 343 158 or email thedentist@tupsley.com.


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