Good oral hygiene will mean your mouth looks and feels healthy. Ideally your teeth will be clean and plaque-free and your gums will be pink and will not hurt or bleed when you brush or floss them.

Our practice can help you learn good oral hygiene techniques and the correct daily routines and we will point out areas of your mouth that may require extra attention.

Daily care, including proper brushing and inter-dental cleaning, can help stop problems before they develop. One of the most important aspects of oral hygiene is undiagnosed gum disease which can lead to general health problems.

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Gingivitis means inflammation of the gums and usually occurs because a film of plaque, or bacteria, accumulates on the teeth. Gingivitis is a non-destructive type of periodontal disease, but untreated gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. This is more serious and can eventually lead to loss of teeth. Signs of gingivitis include red and puffy gums, that bleed easily when the person brushes their teeth. Gingivitis can usually be very quickly resolved by following the appropriate dental hygiene instructions, including correct brushing technique, inter-dental cleaning, and using a dental mouthwash

Periodontitis / gum disease  is a common infection that damages the soft tissue and bone supporting teeth. The name "periodontitis" means "inflammation around the tooth." Bacteria stick to the surface of the tooth and in the pockets surrounding the tooth, and they multiply. As the immune system reacts and toxins are released, inflammation occurs.Untreated periodontitis will continue to destruct the bone and eventually result in losing teeth. It may increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other health problems.Again most cases of periodontitis can be prevented with good dental hygiene. The treatment of periodontal disease includes cleaning the root surface and the diseased pockets and, in very severe cases we can refer to a specialist periodontist.

Our hygienist Trish is available to give specialist individual advice on oral hygiene.