Gum Disease

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Protect your Mouth Gum Diseases in Brent Cross

Our skilled and sensitive dentists in Brent Cross can diagnose and treat your gum disease with modern, personalised care.

Gum disease occurs when plaque is left to build up on the teeth, causing the gums to become infected with bacteria. The most obvious sign of gum disease is blood on your toothbrush or in your mouth when you brush your teeth. Your gums may also be sore and swollen. If left untreated, gum disease will damage the bone and ligaments in the mouth.

The causes of gum disease:

Bacteria may build up on the surface of the teeth and cause infection due to:
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Braces

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Crooked/overlapping teeth

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Implants or dentures

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Poor quality crowns or fillings

Gum disease can also be the result of lifestyle triggers, such as:
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Smoking

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Pregnancy

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Getting older

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Diabetes

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Down’s syndrome

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A weak immune system

The three stages of gum disease:

1. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease with two main symptoms: swollen gums and bleeding when brushing your teeth. Gingivitis can be healed with good home dental care and a visit to our dental practice in Brent Cross. If left untreated, gingivitis can turn into periodontitis.

2. Periodontitis (or periodontal disease) happens when gingivitis spreads to the ligaments and bones in the jaw. The gums pull away from the teeth, trapping plaque in hard-to-reach pockets. As the pockets deepen, they begin to collect pus. The gums recede, exposing the tooth roots and resulting in tooth loss.

Symptoms of periodontitis include:

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Bad breath (halitosis)

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Unpleasant taste in mouth

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Sensitive, receding gums

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Abscesses

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Loose teeth

Periodontal disease can be stopped with professional dental treatment at our dental surgery in Brent Cross, along with good home care.

3. ANUG (acute necrotising ulcerative gingivitis), also known as ‘trench mouth’, is a serious form of gum disease. It typically occurs in the V-shaped gum in between the teeth. ANUG comes on suddenly, displaying symptoms such as:

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Bad breath

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Difficulty swallowing

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Excess of saliva

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Painful ulcers

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Difficulty talking

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A metallic taste in mouth

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Fever and/or illness

Book an emergency appointment with your dentist in Brent Cross if you’re experiencing symptoms of ANUG.

Are you concerned you may be showing signs of gum disease? Visit our caring dental clinic in Brent Cross for swift and effective treatment. We’ll do all we can to restore your dental health.

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FAQs

How Long Does Dental Implant Treatment Take?

Dental implant treatment typically takes between 3 to 6 months from start to finish. This allows time for the implant to properly fuse with the jawbone (a process called osseointegration). In some cases, if additional procedures like bone grafting are required, the overall timeline may be longer.

Are Dental Implants Painful?

Most patients report minimal discomfort during and after the procedure. The implant placement is usually carried out under local anaesthetic, so you won’t feel pain during treatment. Afterward, mild soreness or swelling is normal for a few days and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution and can last 10–15 years or more with proper care. In many cases, they can last a lifetime. Maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental check-ups are key to ensuring their longevity.

Can Anyone Get Dental Implants?

Most adults with good general and oral health are suitable candidates for dental implants. However, sufficient bone density in the jaw is needed to support the implant. Patients with certain medical conditions or those who smoke heavily may require additional assessment or treatment before proceeding.

How Do I Look After My Implants?

Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. This includes brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and attending routine dental visits. Good oral hygiene helps prevent complications such as gum disease, which can affect the success of the implant over time.