Prevention is always better than cure. Regular check ups and having your teeth cleaned professionally by a hygienist are essential to protect the health of your teeth and gums and identify potential problems.

If you have the symptoms below you may have gum disease. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. It is very important to treat it at the earliest possible time.

If left untreated the disease causes the gum and the bone to breakdown leaving:

• Deeper spaces (pockets) in the gum between your teeth and gums, allowing more bacteria to collect.
• Bone loss, resulting in less bone anchoring your teeth.
• Loose teeth, and tooth loss.

Do you suffer from gum disease?

• Do your gums bleed when you brush them?
• Do you get blood in your mouth for no apparent reason?
• Have you noticed spaces developing between your teeth?
• Have you noticed your gums receding, ie your teeth looking longer?
• Do your gums look red or swollen?
• Do you suffer with bad breath?
• Do your teeth feel loose?
• Have your teeth moved position?
• Do you suffer with recurrent infections in your mouth?

If you can answer yes to any of the above questions then you should see a dentist to be screened for gum disease and discuss your concerns.