Gum disease is a major problem, so why are patients largely unconcerned by the symptoms? Corsodyl has recently worked with the British Dental Health Foundation (BDHF) to identify ways to motivate patients to prioritise their gum health. To help improve engagement, Corsodyl has created the ‘Campaign for Healthy Gums’.

Improvements in dental care have resulted in patients retaining their natural teeth for longer, but gum disease is now the UK's leading cause of tooth loss – so why are patients largely unconcerned by the symptoms? At a recent roundtable meeting, hosted by the BDHF and supported by Corsodyl, this issue was discussed by a panel of practising dentists and hygienists.

The panel agreed that the period between dental visits is critical yet, despite oral hygiene education, patients often struggle to follow the advice provided. In addition they discussed that it is unusual for patients to approach a dental professional regarding gum problems – pain being the most likely thing to mention on a dental visit – clearly something more is needed to motivate patients to better gum health.

Subsequently the need for gum health advice which patients could easily follow outside of the dental surgery was identified.

To meet this challenge Corsodyl, a brand with over 30 years of expertise in gum care, has developed a Gum Care Guidance Pack for dental patients as part of the ‘Campaign for Healthy Gums’ initiative. The pack contains educational materials for use both within the waiting room and surgery as well as at home to help make it easier for patients to follow the advice provided by their dentist or hygienist.

FREE gum care packs can be ordered from GSK.

Reader response number 52