At our Liverpool Smile Studio we take every opportunity to remind our patients that practising good dental hygiene habits that include routine check-ups at a dental clinic is the surest way to protect oral health and prevent problems and complications such as gum disease from developing later in life. Here are some symptoms of gum problems our dentist in Liverpool recommends patients look out for.
Gum problems to look out for
- Plaque and tartar build-up
There are a number of places and spaces where plaque can accumulate: between teeth, across and below the gum line as well as on the indentations of teeth. Ineffective brushing and flossing will only allow plaque to harden leading to the formation of tartar and additional dental problems. Once tartar is formed, only the skills of a dental practitioner can remove it through professional cleaning.
- Gingivitis
The earliest stage of gum disease is gingivitis when inflammation becomes noticeable. Other symptoms include redness and bleeding. Another concern is that pockets form between gums and teeth which may lead to eventual tooth loss if not treated. Fortunately this stage is reversible by following our dentist in Liverpool
Advice as well as seeking professional cleaning and establishing a strict oral hygiene practice.
- Periodontitis
At this stage inflammation may worsen and gums become infected. The danger here is when the infection reaches the vital supporting bone structure. Symptoms of gingivitis may worsen, gums recede and the pockets created between teeth and gums deepen to hide more and more bacteria. Teeth may begin to become loose as bone is further compromised.
- Progressive Periodontitis
Periodontitis can progress to an advanced stage where pockets deepen further to fill with pus. Further bone loss is experienced, patients may feel teeth sensitivity when eating and drinking. To keep the disease from spreading, treatment may have to include removing teeth.
Why drinking water is critical to gum health
Gum disease may sound alarming and is a cause for concern. The best way to maintain gum health and prevent the development of disease is to eliminate bacteria in the mouth. This can be effectively done with proper brushing and flossing of teeth and gums. Drinking water also plays a critical role in gum health.
Saliva forms the first line of defence by getting rid of bacteria. To produce enough saliva, patients need to drink sufficient amounts of water. Staying hydrated now offers another reason to drink the average recommended daily limit of eight glasses a day – keep gums free of gingivitis and periodontal disease.
Another line of effective protection against bacteria is swishing saltwater around the mouth. Warm saltwater (a mix of water and salt) offers incredible benefits to keeping the mouth healthy: removes build-up of plaque, reduce inflammation and offer relief from sore gums. Rinsing the mouth twice a day for at least a minute each time may offer desired results.
There is no substitute for routine visits to your dental clinic. Even with brushing and flossing daily, a check-up is still necessary to ensure that teeth and gums are healthy. Schedule your check-up now by contacting us at Liverpool Smile Studio.