Periodontitis and gingivitis (gum disease) is an infection of the gums and supporting tissues.

At Choimes Dental every patient is screened carefully for gum disease at every examination and clean appointment.

Periodontitis and gingivitis infection causes the bone that supports the teeth to resorb and the gums are often red, swollen, sometimes tender and bleed easily while brushing, flossing, or eating hard food. The gums may also be receding away from the teeth.

Common symptoms include bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth, bleeding gums and loose teeth and sensitivity around the receding gums. 

If gum disease is detected at your examination and clean appointment, we will perform a more detailed analysis of the gums to identify the stage of the disease.

Treatment for gum disease usually requires 3-4 appointments, where plaque and tartar on the teeth will be meticulously removed, leaving no plaque build-up and minimal bacteria, which gives the gums the best chance to heal.

For more severe or complex cases, a referral to a periodontist (gum specialist) may be required.

Regular check-ups are essential to spot and treat gum disease early. So if you notice any symptoms of gum disease (bleeding, bad breath, redness, receding gums), then it is important to call Choimes Dental for an appointment.