Gum disease prevention is one of our principle missions at Advance Dental and we urge all our patients to take good care of their teeth and gums and attend regular dental checks in a bid to reduce the risk of falling foul of periodontal disease. Although gum disease is preventable, it remains the leading cause of tooth loss in adults in the UK. Gum disease is caused by harmful bacteria, which gather and multiply in the mouth and give off plaque acids; these acids wear away the tooth enamel and irritate the gums. The most common warning signs of gum disease including bleeding gums when you brush your teeth, inflammation and soreness. Gum disease can also cause redness and tenderness in the gums, bad breath and an unpleasant taste in the mouth and the formation of pockets between the teeth and gums. It’s advisable to be aware of the symptoms of gum disease because the mild form of gum disease, gingivitis, is relatively easy to treat and usually, good oral hygiene and cleaning treatments are sufficient to banish symptoms. The danger comes when gingivitis is neglected and it becomes more advanced; periodontal disease, a more serious form of gum disease, causes irreparable and irreversible damage to the gums and the bone tissue beneath and requires long-term treatment. The usual outcome of periodontal disease is tooth loss. If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, we strongly recommend that you call and make an appointment with your dentist; there may be nothing to worry about, but it’s always best to act early, just in case you do have gum disease, as early intervention will prevent further damage and save you from suffering from pain and other unpleasant symptoms. The main risk factors for periodontal disease include smoking, poor oral hygiene and a diet rich in sugary and acidic foods.