Gum-disease Periodontal diseases are serious bacterial infections which destroy the attachment fibres and supporting bone that hold your teeth in your mouth. Left untreated, these diseases can and do lead to tooth loss. Periodontal disease is the number one reason why people over the age of 50 lose teeth. Periodontal infection can affect your general health and hence it is important to control.
How does gum disease occur?
Gum disease is caused by build-up of bacteria in plaque, a sticky colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth. Regular brushing & flossing and hygienist treatment can remove this build up and prevent gum disease from progressing.
If plaque is allowed to build up, it will cause irritation to the gums, making them swell up and bleed. This is known as gingivitis. Gingivitis is reversible and is resolved by excellent at-home care and hygienist treatment.
If gingivitis is not treated and the plaque continually builds up, you will be at risk of periodontitis. This is when the fibres around the tooth are damaged by the increase in bacteria, resulting in pockets and ultimately bone loss around the tooth. Periodontitis is a serious and irreversible condition that can lead to tooth loss..
What is treatment like?
If you have gingivitis, we recommend that you visit us for regular professional cleaning. If you have periodontitis, a full initial assessment will be carried out to assist in planning a course of treatment specifically tailored to your needs. Scaling-and-Planning treatment will depend on how far the disease has developed.
Typically, you will undergo in-depth cleaning – a treatment known as “root debridement”. This may require several appointments. Typical cases last from 3 months to 1 year, but for some people, a lifetime commitment may be required. In advanced cases, root debridement is not sufficient to achieve optimal results. In this case, surgical treatment.
To reduce discomfort, all periodontal procedures are completed under local anesthetic and/or conscious sedation. There may be some post-operative discomfort which you will be advised how to manage by our team.
How can I take care of my new smile?
It is critical that throughout your treatment and following treatment that you maintain a high level of oral hygiene.
You can do this by:
1) Regular brushing; recommended 3 times per day
2) Using fluoride alcohol-free mouth wash daily
3) Using inter-dental brushes daily
4) Eating plenty of fruit & maintain a healthy low-sugar diet; avoid sticky sweets, biscuits, gum, fizzy drinks etc.
5) Visiting your dentist regularly
Your new smile will enhance your appearance, increase your confidence and improve your dentition. Please look after your new smile as a lack of conscientious care can lead to staining, decay, gum problems and many more complication