Gum Health

Healthy gums keep your teeth secure. Our hygienists and therapists help you prevent, treat and manage gum disease at our practice in Portsmouth.

Book an consultation 023 9217 0201

the stages of gum disease

How gum disease develops.

STAGE 1

Gingivitis

Plaque along the gum line causes inflammation, making gums red, swollen or prone to bleeding. Bad breath can also occur. At this stage, it can usually be reversed with professional cleaning and good home care.

STAGE 2

Periodontitis

The gums come away from the teeth and form pockets that are difficult to clean. Hardened deposits collect there and begin to damage the tissue and bone that hold the teeth in place.

STAGE 3

Advanced Periodontitis

The supporting bone and ligaments are badly damaged. Teeth can become loose, infections are more likely, and affected teeth may become painful or eventually need to be removed.

why gum health matters

Gum disease is the most common cause of tooth loss in adults.

Gum disease begins when plaque builds up along the gum line and irritates the gums. It is rarely painful in the early stages, so many people do not realise they have it. Bleeding gums are not normal and should always be checked. Smoking and diabetes can increase the risk, while regular dental check-ups can help spot problems early and prevent them from getting worse.

Watch

Gum disease explained.

Understanding gum disease makes it easier to prevent. These videos explain how it develops and how it can be managed. Our hygienists are approachable and will not judge the condition of your teeth or gums, whatever your dental history. Their focus is on what can be done now to help you keep your teeth for life.

How we can help

Gum care at Coast Dental Health.

Preventing gum disease

Regular hygiene visits remove the plaque and hardened deposits that cause gum disease, including in areas brushing alone cannot reach. They also allow us to identify changes in your gums early.

Treating gum disease

Where pockets have formed, we clean thoroughly below the gum line, usually over several visits. Local anaesthetic is available to keep you comfortable.

Caring for your gums at home

We show you how to brush along the gum line and clean between your teeth, with guidance suited to your mouth.

*You can book directly with our hygienist or therapist without seeing a dentist first. Our team follows guidance from the British Society of Periodontology.

If you are concerned about bleeding gums or gum disease, book a hygiene appointment online or call 023 9217 0201.

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FAQS

Your questions, answered.

My gums bleed when I brush. Should I stop brushing that area?

No. Bleeding usually means plaque is irritating the gums, so the area needs more thorough cleaning. Brush gently, keep cleaning between your teeth and book an appointment.

Can gum disease be cured?

Gingivitis can usually be reversed completely. Bone lost through periodontitis does not grow back, but treatment can stop the disease from progressing and help you keep your teeth.

Does gum treatment hurt?

Routine cleaning is comfortable for most patients. For deeper cleaning, we can numb the area first. Some sensitivity afterwards is normal and settles within a few days.

Related care

You may also need:

All treatments

Missing Teeth

Options for replacing teeth lost to gum disease.

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General Treatments

Regular examinations help us identify gum problems early.

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Emergency Dentistry

Prompt appointments for dental pain, swelling or infection.

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