Gum Disease: The Silent Threat to Your Smile

When we think about oral health, we often focus on cavities or tooth whitening. However, one of the biggest threats to a healthy smile doesn’t come from your teeth—but your gums. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, affects millions of people and often develops silently, without pain or visible symptoms in the early stages. That’s why it’s often called a “silent threat.”

In this article, we’ll explain what gum disease is, how to recognise the warning signs, and what you can do to protect your smile.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It’s typically caused by poor brushing and flossing habits that allow plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—to build up on the teeth and harden. Over time, this plaque can damage the gums and the bone supporting the teeth.

There are two main stages:

• Gingivitis – The early stage, where gums become red, swollen, and may bleed during brushing.

• Periodontitis – The advanced stage, where the gums pull away from the teeth and bone is lost, potentially leading to tooth loss.

Early Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Gum disease often develops without pain, so it’s important to look out for these subtle signs:

• Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing

• Red, swollen, or tender gums

• Persistent bad breath

• Receding gums or “longer” looking teeth

• Loose or shifting teeth

If you notice any of these symptoms, book an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.

Why Gum Health Matters

Ignoring gum disease can have serious consequences—not just for your oral health, but for your overall well-being. Research shows a link between periodontal disease and systemic conditions like:

• Heart disease

• Diabetes

• Respiratory infections

• Complications in pregnancy

That’s why treating gum disease is not just about saving your teeth—it’s also about protecting your overall health.

Prevention and Treatment at Poldent Dental Care

The good news is that gum disease is both preventable and treatable—especially when caught early.

At Poldent Dental Care in Leeds and Wakefield, we offer comprehensive periodontal services, including:

✅ Professional cleaning and scaling

✅ Deep cleaning (root planing) for advanced cases

✅ Personalised oral hygiene advice

✅ Regular check-ups to monitor your gum health

We use gentle, modern techniques to keep your gums healthy and your smile bright.

What You Can Do at Home

Here are a few tips to help protect your gums between visits: