Gum Disease

Gum disease or periodontal disease doesn't sound nice. It is something we would all like to avoid and it could seem like terrible news if we are told that we have it.

It is the most commonly overlooked problem that we may suffer from. In fact around 75% of adults have had some form of gum disease. There are various different causative factors. Smoking, systemic disease such as diabetes, family history and stress. However the disease progression and ability to stop it is solely linked to adaptation of good oral hygiene methods.

It is unfortunately not just a case of brushing your teeth well. This obviously helps, but thorough cleaning is not achieved with just tooth brushing alone. The use of in-between the teeth cleaning aids are vitally important. Follow the links for further information about gum disease and bad breath.

Hygienists

Hygienists play an important role in prevention cleaning the harder to reach areas. Even the dentists here go to the hygienist regularly. The hygienists will also monitor and instruct on your home cleaning. We view hygienist treatment as the most important treatment we can provide at The Half Moon Dental Centre. Prevention is better than a cure.

Hygienist treatment is unfortunately not available as an NHS treatment. We believe the extra attention and time given by the hygienist pays dividends.

Find out more about what you can expect from a hygienist visit.

PLEASE NOTE WE DO NOT OFFER DIRECT ACCESS

Periodontist.

What is a periodontist? Claudia is a dentist who has undergone specialist training to treat and manage gum or periodontal disease. She will undertake a course of treatment to help the more complicated of cases. This will involve intensive cleaning and occasionally some surgery to make difficult areas easier to clean.

The American Academy of Periodontology also provides useful information.