Understanding Gum Disease

Gingivitis & Periodontitis

Gum disease is one of the most common dental health issues, yet many people don’t realize they’re affected until it becomes serious. Gum disease is a prevalent issue in Ireland, affecting a significant portion of the population. According to the Irish Dental Association, while over 80% of Irish adults believe their gums are healthy, approximately 80% actually have some form of gum disease. Additionally, the World Health Organization estimates that severe periodontal disease affects 7.8% of individuals aged 15 and older in Ireland.

These statistics highlight the importance of regular dental check-ups and proper oral hygiene to prevent and manage gum disease effectively. At Castletroy Dental Clinic, we believe that education is the first step in prevention. In this post, we’ll explain what gum disease is, how it develops, and most importantly, how you can prevent and treat it.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a bacterial infection that affects the tissues supporting your teeth. It generally develops in two stages:

1. Gingivitis: This is the earlier stage of gum disease, characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed when brushing or flossing. The good news? Gingivitis is reversible with proper oral care and professional cleanings.
2. Periodontitis: If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. This more severe form of gum disease damages the bone and connective tissues that support your teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss. Even though periodontal disease can’t be cured, with good oral hygiene and regular visits it can be maintained.

Causes of Gum Disease

The primary cause of gum disease is plaque buildup—a sticky biofilm of bacteria that forms on your teeth. Contributing factors include:

• Poor oral hygiene
• Smoking or tobacco use
• Diabetes
• Genetic predisposition
• Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, menopause)
• Certain medications

How to Prevent Gum Disease

Preventing gum disease is easier than you might think! Here are some simple yet effective steps:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth.
• Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria.
• Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings.
• Maintain a balanced diet to support overall oral health.
• Quit smoking to significantly lower your risk.

At Castletroy Dental Clinic, our skilled hygienists, Maggie and Louise, provide professional cleanings and personalized advice to keep your gums healthy. Routine scale and polish treatments can prevent gingivitis from developing into more serious issues.

Treatment Options at Castletroy Dental Clinic

If gum disease has already developed, don’t worry—we offer advanced treatments to manage and improve your gum health:

• Professional Cleaning: Maggie and Louise perform thorough scale and polish treatments to remove plaque and tartar.
• Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planning): For more advanced cases, this treatment cleans below the gum line to eliminate bacteria and smooth root surfaces.
• Advanced Periodontal Treatment: We offer specialized care for periodontitis, ensuring your gums get the treatment they need to heal and stay healthy. Where necessary we can also refer patients to local periodontists (dentists specialized in this field).

Recognizing the Signs of Gum Disease

Early detection is key! Look out for these common symptoms:

• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Bleeding during brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath
• Receding gums
• Loose or shifting teeth

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s time to take action.

Book Your Appointment Today

Protect your smile by staying proactive with your gum health. Whether you need a routine cleaning or advanced periodontal care, Maggie and Louise are here to help.

Call us at 061 335 226

Email patients@castletroydentalclinic.ie,

or book online to schedule your appointment today! Click here

Your gums deserve expert care—let’s keep your smile healthy and bright!

Coming Soon: The Complete guide to Brushing and Flossing with advice from our Hygienists Maggie and Louise!