Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. Unfortunately, gum disease is one of the most common oral health problems among adults and one of the leading causes of tooth loss. The good news? With the right care and professional treatment, gum disease can be managed and even prevented.
In this article, we’ll explain what gum disease is, the early warning signs to look out for, and the treatments available at our practice with Dr Laksh Padala, a dentist with a special interest in Periodontics at Fulwood in Preston.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease occurs when the tissues supporting your teeth become inflamed, swollen, or infected. There are two main stages:
- Gingivitis – the earliest stage, where gums appear red, swollen, and may bleed during brushing or flossing.
- Periodontal Disease – a more advanced stage that affects the bone and tissues supporting your teeth. If left untreated, it can cause loose teeth and eventual tooth loss.
Am I at Risk of Gum Disease?
Most adults will experience some form of gum disease in their lifetime. While it often develops slowly, certain factors can increase your risk, including:
- Poor oral hygiene habits
- Smoking
- Diabetes or other underlying health conditions
- Family history of gum disease
With early diagnosis and professional care, gum disease can be controlled so that you keep your teeth for life.
What Causes Gum Disease?
The main culprit is dental plaque – a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth daily. If plaque isn’t removed with thorough brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar and irritates the gums. Over time, this leads to inflammation, infection, and tissue damage.
Signs & Symptoms of Gum Disease
Look out for these warning signs:
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Gum recession (teeth appearing longer)
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to book a dental check-up as soon as possible.
Why Smoking Makes Gum Disease Worse
Smokers are more likely to develop gum disease and to experience it more severely. This is because smoking reduces blood flow and oxygen in the gums, slowing down healing and making infections harder to control. Quitting smoking is one of the best steps you can take for both your oral and general health.
What Happens If Gum Disease Is Left Untreated?
One of the dangers of gum disease is that it often progresses silently – without pain. This means damage can occur before you realise there’s a problem. Untreated gum disease can lead to:
- Gum abscesses (painful collections of pus)
- Significant bone loss around teeth
- Loose teeth or tooth loss
- Increased risk of health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke
How Is Gum Disease Treated?
Treatment depends on the stage and severity of the disease:
- Professional Cleaning & Oral Hygiene Advice removing plaque and tartar, plus guidance on effective brushing and flossing.
- Root Planning (Deep Cleaning), smoothing root surfaces to remove bacteria from deep pockets under the gums.
- Antibiotic Therapy in some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to support healing.
- Ongoing Supportive Therapy – regular check-ups and hygiene visits (often every 3 months) to keep gum health stable.
- Corrective Periodontal Surgery for advanced cases, surgery may be required to reduce pocket depth or regenerate lost bone and tissue.
Your dentist will create a personalised treatment plan designed to control infection and protect your smile.
The Link Between Gum Disease & General Health
Recent studies show a strong connection between gum health and overall wellbeing. Gum disease has been linked to conditions such as:
- Diabetes
- Cardiovascular disease
- Stroke
- Dementia
- Pregnancy complications
Looking after your gums is not just about your teeth — it’s about your overall health, too.
Periodontal Care in Preston
At Fulwood Dental in Preston, our dentist, Dr Laksh Padala, has a special interest in periodontal care. Dr Laksh has a Master’s degree in Periodontology and extensive experience in the management of gum disease. His approach combines advanced treatment techniques with patient-focused care to restore gum health and prevent future problems.
“My aim is to provide professional, high-quality periodontal care in a calm and approachable way — helping patients protect their oral health and confidence for the long term.” – Dr. Laksh
Book Your Gum Health Consultation Today
If you’re experiencing bleeding gums, bad breath, or any symptoms of gum disease, don’t delay. Early intervention is key to protecting your teeth and overall health.
📞 Call our Preston dental practice on 0177 278 3582 to arrange your consultation with Dr. Laksh.
(Please note: online booking is not currently available for periodontal treatments. Call us directly to schedule your appointment.)