“Oral disease affects 3.9 billion people worldwide, with between 60 and  90 per cent of children suffering from tooth decay globally. Yet, poor oral health goes far beyond the initial implications of dental disease and tooth decay; it has been associated with a number of health conditions, such as heart disease, pancreatic cancer, pneumonia and lung disease. In a recent study, 40 per cent of people with serious periodontal disease also reported suffering from an additional chronic condition”

says Dental Tribune International

What is gum disease?

Gum disease is a common, but largely preventable, condition that affects the supporting structures around your teeth. It can range from a simple gum inflammation to a serious disease that can cause damage to the bone and ligaments that support your teeth.

Periodontitis is usually the result of poor oral hygiene.The longer plaque and tartar are left on your teeth it irritates your gums, and the more harmful they become. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums, which is usually caused by a bacterial infection. If left untreated, it can advance to a more serious infection known as periodontitis, when the bones, gums and tissue surrounding your teeth are destroyed.

Untreated periodontitis will eventually result in tooth loss, and is associated with an increased risk of diabetes, heart attack, stroke, and lung disease

Signs and symptoms of gum disease

The following can be symptoms of gum disease:

• red, tender, or swollen gums
• bleeding gums when you brush or floss your teeth
• gums that have pulled away from the teeth
• loose teeth
• a change in how your teeth fit together when you bite (malocclusion)
• pus between teeth and gums
• pain when chewing
• sensitive teeth
• poorly fitting dentures
• bad breath that does not go away after you brush your teeth

Any of these symptoms may be a sign of a serious problem, and you should see your dentist for a thorough examination.

Risk factors for poor oral health

• smoking
• diabetes
• certain medications
• broken fillings
• pregnancy
• genetic factors
• compromised immunity (such as HIV/AIDS patients)

Prevention and treatment of gum disease

Prevention is simple:

• brush and floss your teeth properly at least twice a day
• visit your dentist or hygienist regularly
• stop smoking
• Treatment, however, is dependent upon the severity of your gum disease.

Your dentist may refer you to a dental hygienist for specific oral hygiene methods to help you control the bacteria that collect on your teeth and professional cleaning of your teeth.

Most cases of periodontal disease can be successfully treated by your dentist using traditional methods. Occasionally, more complex treatments are required and your dentist will advise you accordingly.

If you have severe gum disease, your dentist may refer you to a specialist periodontist for further medical and dental treatment and, in some cases, surgery may need to be carried out.

How can Graysons help?

It may be the case that your dentist failed to recognise, or accurately diagnose, record and appropriately treat your periodontal disease even though you attended for regular and routine dental treatment. This failure may have resulted in tooth loss, the need to replace the lost teeth and restore your dentition, including bone augmentation and implant placement.

Here at Graysons we recognise the devastating effect that a delayed diagnosis of periodontal disease can have. We understand the importance of compensation to you as it can greatly improve quality of life for you and your family and provide the care and security that is needed.

If you would like to talk to a member of our specialist team then please contact us for a confidential and free discussion today.

You can find out more about who you can make a medical claim against on our web pages.