Gum disease can attack the soft tissue and supporting bone around the teeth, it can also affect your general health and severely spoil your smile.
Tooth loss, oral infections and severe gum disease can occur as a result of poor oral hygiene. There is usually one main cause, a build up of plaque around the gums and teeth. If left untreated, dental plaque can accumulate and may harden in to tartar or calculus. If the build-up of plaque is left untreated it may cause damage to the structure of your teeth and bones and a wide variety of other dental health problems. To help combat gum disease, brush your teeth and gums at least twice a day and floss regularly.
Why Visit the Hygienist
Regular visits to your dental hygienist will help to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Hygienists work to promote better awareness of brushing technique, the importance of flossing and the need for greater oral hygiene. Visiting the hygienist regularly can allow us to monitor the condition of your gums and help you keep your teeth for longer.
We are aware that for some a visit to the dentist can cause dread and anxiety, yet good dental and oral hygiene advice can help you reduce these anxious visits.
Your hygienist is trained to demonstrate how to clean your teeth properly. The hygienist will give you advice on tooth brushing and show you how to get between the teeth effectively, therefore, improving your oral hygiene and maintain healthy gums and mouth. Keeping plaque and tartar to a minimum will reduce any bleeding from the gums. Bleeding is a warning sign of future problems and should not be overlooked.
The majority of adult patients need to have a plaque control appointment every 6 months; although some patients require an appointment more regularly than that. Your dentist will advise you.