Healthy gums do more than keep your teeth in place. There’s a growing body of research linking gum disease with wider health, which is one reason regular dental and hygienist visits matter even when your teeth feel fine.
Gum disease starts when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up along the gumline. In the early stage, called gingivitis, the gums become red, swollen and may bleed when you brush. At this point it’s reversible with good cleaning at home and professional care.
If it isn’t treated, it can progress to periodontitis. Here the tissues and bone that support the teeth are damaged, and teeth can eventually loosen. Gum disease is very common in UK adults and often causes no pain in the early stages, so many people don’t realise they have it.
Researchers have found links between gum disease and several general health conditions. In most cases these are associations. People with gum disease are more likely to have these conditions, but that doesn’t mean gum disease causes them. The main areas are:
Diabetes. This is the best-established link, and it works both ways. Diabetes makes gum disease more likely and more severe, and untreated gum disease can make blood sugar harder to control. If you have diabetes, keeping your gums healthy is an important part of looking after your health.
Heart and circulation. People with gum disease have higher rates of heart disease. One explanation is the ongoing inflammation that gum disease causes, but research hasn’t shown that treating gums prevents heart problems.
Pregnancy. Hormonal changes make gums more prone to inflammation during pregnancy, so it’s a good time to keep up with check-ups. NHS dental care is free during pregnancy and for 12 months after.
The practical message is the same whatever the reason: healthy gums are part of being healthy.
See your dentist or hygienist if you notice:
Even with careful brushing, it’s hard to reach every surface. Plaque that’s left behind hardens into tartar, which you can’t remove at home. At a hygiene appointment your hygienist checks your gum health, removes plaque and tartar, and shows you the cleaning techniques and tools that suit your mouth. For many people, interdental brushes clean between the teeth more effectively than floss.
Most patients benefit from a hygiene visit every six months. If you have a history of gum disease, have diabetes, smoke, or wear braces, your hygienist may suggest coming more often. If gum disease has progressed, we offer periodontal treatment with a hygienist. You can read more on our gum disease page.
As a private patient you can book a dental hygienist appointment directly, without needing a check-up first. Current prices are in our fee guide, or call us on 020 8670 2296.
This article is general information and isn’t a substitute for advice from your own dentist or doctor.
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