Gingivitis, the milder form of periodontitis, commonly known as gum disease, is one of the most common causes of lost teeth in the UK, especially among the elderly. The disease is caused by bacteria and plaque building up in the mouth which cause an inflammation and infection of the gum tissue. This infection attacks the tissue that surrounds the tooth, the gum membranes and even the underlying bone structure. Gum disease is preventable and is usually caused by poor hygiene, including a lack of effective brushing and flossing, and poor diet.

When gingivitis becomes the more serious periodontits it will require treatment from a dentist to completely cure. This may involve a course of antibiotics and even some tissue removal, depending on the condition of the gums. This can be painful and unpleasant so it is always wise to treat gum disease as early as possible. Most dentists will recommend treating gingivitis with improved brushing and flossing (your City of London dentist will be able to show you how during a routine check up). It may also involve rinsing your mouth with salty water a number of times a day to help fight the inflammation.

There are also a number of herbal remedies that can be used to treat gingivitis that can help to eliminate the infection and reduce inflammation. For acute gum disease, plantain poultices with drops of Echinacea tincture applied to the area can really help to alleviate the symptoms. By taking a small gauze, covered in the remedy, and applying it to the area for a long period, preferably overnight, you can help to fight the gum disease.

Other herbs that can be used to treat gum disease include aloe vera and clove. Both of which have anti-inflammatory qualities that can help to sooth the discomfort of gum disease. Ask your dentist for more information about herbal remedies for gum disease.

Braces can help to radically improve the appearance of a smile. Not only do they align and straighten teeth but they can also improve bite and profile altering the appearance of more than just the teeth. However, braces can cause other problems in the mouth, especially if they are of the fixed bracket variety. Certain parts of braces such as wires and elastic ties can attract bacteria and brackets and palates can trap food particles which can be breeding grounds for bacteria.

If teeth are not cleaned sufficiently when wearing braces they can leave patched areas when the brackets are removed at the end of treatment. Therefore it is very important to keep teeth clean when you are wearing braces. This involves sticking to a cleaning regime very diligently and one that may be more vigorous than for people without braces. If teeth are not kept clean during orthodontic treatment it can cause dental decay and gum disease that may be very difficult to treat because of the braces. This can increase the damaging power of these conditions.

Central London dentists recommend that patients undergoing orthodontic treatment try to clean their teeth and braces four times a day, after each meal and before bedtime. This helps to remove food trapped in the brace and any bacteria that may have accumulated. It is also recommended that brace wearers floss at least twice a day. Carrying floss and a travel toothbrush with you can help you to remember to clean your teeth even if you are not at home. Your diet can also help to keep your teeth clean. By avoiding sugary foods during orthodontic treatment and eating more fresh fruit and vegetables you can help to keep your teeth healthy. Also, you will need to keep up your six monthly dental appointments.

This disease affects people of all ages. Periodontal is also referred to gum disease. Generally it is an infection of the tissues and bones that support the entire network of teeth. If this disease is not treated it can become so serious causing the teeth to become loose and hence they will gradually fall out.
This disease is often caused by the buildup of plague, which is an accumulation of germs which form around the teeth and gums. The plague consists of bacteria which produces toxins that damage the gums.
There are several hundreds of bacteria which live in our mouth. Hence we battle every time by brushing, flossing our teeth and also visiting your London dentist regularly in order to fight these germs.
Gingivitis and Periodontitis are the gum diseases which are often known as serious infections.
Gingivitis – It is often known as the mildest form of gum disease and it causes the gums to be come red and swollen. The gums become very week and at times they bleed. This disease is often caused by lack of oral hygiene.
Periodontitis – is known as the advance stage of gingivitis. The plague spreads and grows below the gum. The bacteria produced causes discomfort to the gums. The gums begin to separate from the teeth since the tissues and bones that support the teeth will be destroyed.
There are several forms of Periodontitis and the commons ones are Aggressive Periodontitis, Chronic Periodontitis, Periodontitis as a manifestation of systemic diseases, Necrotizing periodontal disease.
The symptoms of gum disease are that gums start to bleed whilst sleeping or brushing your teeth. Gums begin to turn red and become swollen.
This disease can be cured by the use of professional treatment or oral home care that includes healthy eating, flossing and brushing of teeth regularly.