Sep
Many individuals who have gum disease are unaware of it. In fact, as much as 80% of the population may be affected by some form of the disease, whether it’s gingivitis (mild gum disease) or periodontitis (advanced gum disease).
The best way to ensure that you do not develop gum disease is to maintain proper oral hygiene and regular check-ups with Dr. Titania Tong in Central Hong Kong.
Gum disease is an infection that impacts the oral tissues. Inside our mouths are naturally occurring bacteria. The bacteria feed on the sugars in food and drinks and produce plaque; a clear, sticky biofilm. When plaque is not properly removed from the teeth through daily brushing and flossing, it can harden and lead to infection in the gums.
Once a person develops gum disease, gum tissue begins to recede, and pockets form around the teeth. These pockets allow plaque and infection to travel below the gum line and can damage the root and jawbone.
In addition to oral health problems, gum disease can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, kidney disease, and preterm birth for pregnant women.
Gum disease treatment is highly individualized, and based on the severity of the condition. For gingivitis, the treatment usually involves an improved oral hygiene routine at home, a professional deep cleaning, and frequent dental check-ups. Advanced periodontal disease can require more intensive treatment, including surgery. Patients who lose teeth due to periodontitis will need restorative work such as bridges, dentures, or implants.
If you have noticed any of the signs of gum disease, including bleeding, inflamed or sore gums, chronic bad breath, teeth shifting, or loss of teeth, please call our Central Hong Kong office today at 852 2810-1801 to schedule a gum disease evaluation.
Dr. Titania was born in Hong Kong, but she grew up in England, where she completed her undergraduate education and received her degree in dentistry from Guy’s Hospital Dental School at the University of London. She practiced general dentistry in London for a period of four years, and then returned to Hong Kong in 1987, where she spent the next decade working in a large group practice before establishing her own dental clinic in 1999.