Innovative Ways To Protect Your Gums With Muswell Hill Smile

Gum disease starts when plaque builds up under and along the gum line. Plaque is a sticky film-like substance that’s filled with bacteria.

The earliest stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, where your gums become: inflamed, tender, red, swollen and prone to bleeding.

If the bone and the supporting structures are not impacted, gingivitis is reversible.

That’s why excellent levels of oral hygiene are necessary in order to maintain good periodontal health.

What if my gum disease has progressed?

Recent evidence shows that targeting specific bacteria from the start of the discovery of gum disease can have a major influence over the presentation, development and progression of it.

Knowing which species of bacteria are present before periodontal treatment begins in order to avoid under- or overtreatment is highly recommendable and at Muswell Hill Smile we are using the latest technology of microbiological testing to treat our gum disease patients with the most effective procedure.

When should I see my Muswell Hill Dentist?

The signs associated with gum disease are:

• bad taste or breath
• loose permanent teeth
• gums that easily bleed or are swollen
• red or tender gums that have pulled away from your teeth.

During your first visit, we will examine and assess your dental situation to come to a diagnosis. If gum disease or gingivitis is discovered, a swab sample is taken from your mouth and sent to our specialist partner laboratory. Within a short period, we will receive the result and comprehensive report back, which we will then discuss with you.

How does microbiological testing improve my gum disease treatment?

Knowing our patient’s individual bacterial load leads to a better-informed periodontal therapy at Muswell Hill Smile where we will adjust your individualized treatment plan as it may involve the application of certain types of antibiotics in conjunction with periodontal cleaning.

The antibiotics chosen by us for your treatment will only target the individually identified harmful bacteria present in your mouth, while not interfering with beneficial bacterial flora.

After the initial treatment of your gum disease bacteria, we will have it analysed again by our partner laboratory. It should ideally show that no period ontopathogenic bacteria remain or that they have at least significantly decreased. It will also help our Muswell Hill dentists to monitor the progress of the disease closely and to plan any further treatment more adequately.

What else can I do?

• Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once a day is a MUST! Brushing your teeth ideally after every meal will help you remove the food and plaque trapped between your teeth and gums. And flossing will help remove the plaque and food that’s beyond your toothbrush’s reach.
• With a regular check-up, your dentist can provide professional tooth cleaning to remove tartar. It can also get rid of any plaque you missed when brushing or flossing.
• If you are a smoker, then you are more likely to get gum disease as smoking weakens your immune system. Cutting down cigarettes is the best way to protect your teeth and gums.
• Different foods can have a positive or negative impact on gum health. A high-fibre diet including fruits and vegetables can help to keep your teeth healthy, and black and green teas will help to reduce bacteria. Also, dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt will help to increase saliva production to fight off gum disease bacteria.

If in doubt, speak to our gum disease specialists at your top North London family dentist in our Muswell Hill Smile practice. Get a free initial consultation to establish your dental needs and prevent future dental problems like gum disease now. Or get in touch for an emergency appointment, if you’re already suffering from severe pain symptoms.