Healthy
Gums
Your gums are like cushions for your teeth; they surround the tooth from its crown to its root in the jaw and help to support a healthy mouth. Looking after your gums is just as important as looking after your teeth, and without routine cleaning gum disease can occur.
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These are the stages of gum disease:
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Red and swollen gums that bleed when you brush them are a sign of a type of gum disease, gingivitis.
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When gingivitis is left untreated it can develop further into a type of infection known as periodontitis, which affects the entire area surrounding the tooth, causing discomfort and difficulty when eating
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Eventually this kind of infection can lead to tooth loss and may require invasive procedures to replace the missing tooth.
Fortunately, this can be avoided by attending regular hygiene check-ups at the practice and maintaining a good daily hygiene routine. Brushing between the teeth, flossing and replacing your toothbrush every three months will also benefit your gum health.
