Q.
Hi Dr. I have read on this site that gum disease is not reversible or curable by cleaning, and that gingivitis is. I definatley had gingivitis as my dentist told me. I then had a scale and polish and have brushed well. I was wondering how I could tell or if indeed I could that the gingivitis had been destroyed. My teeth no longer bleed or anything- not even when brushing? But some space did open up between my teeth where the little point of gum used to be (I dont think these spaces are getting bigger). Could this be the sign of more underlying problem or am I now OK would you say? I kow it’s not ideal given that you can’t see me but what would you think? thanks
Hi Dr. I have read on this site that gum disease is not reversible or curable by cleaning, and that gingivitis is. I definatley had gingivitis as my dentist told me. I then had a scale and polish and have brushed well. I was wondering how I could tell or if indeed I could that the gingivitis had been destroyed. My teeth no longer bleed or anything- not even when brushing? But some space did open up between my teeth where the little point of gum used to be (I dont think these spaces are getting bigger). Could this be the sign of more underlying problem or am I now OK would you say? I kow it’s not ideal given that you can’t see me but what would you think? thanks
A.
It sounds like you are on top of the problem as bleeding/inflammation are the primary clinical signs of gum problems. The fact that you have lost a bit of tissue height in the space between the teeth makes me think that you must have lost some bone height and as such you may have had a mild periodontitis (gum disease) You appear to be doing the right things but I would ask your hygienist or dentist what they think at your next appointment.
It sounds like you are on top of the problem as bleeding/inflammation are the primary clinical signs of gum problems. The fact that you have lost a bit of tissue height in the space between the teeth makes me think that you must have lost some bone height and as such you may have had a mild periodontitis (gum disease) You appear to be doing the right things but I would ask your hygienist or dentist what they think at your next appointment.
Dr Ian Dunn
PurelyPerio Clinic 334, PO Box 334, Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 0AG Web: www.purelyperio.co.uk Tel: 01625 419700
