Treatment of Gum Disease

You may know periodontal disease by its more common name: gum disease, affecting those with natural teeth and dental implants alike.

Poor at-home habits, failing to come along to routine check-ups and maintenance appointments and genetics are some of the reasons why one might develop periodontal disease. However, it is possible to treat periodontal disease, and set you on the path to healthier gums in the future.

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is the persistent inflammation of the gums, that eventually destroys the bone and ligament supporting a tooth or an implant in place within the jaw. The principal cause of periodontal disease is the bacteria that exist in plaque, that sits above and below the gum line. Periodontal disease remains the common cause for tooth loss in adults, and treatment is crucial if you want to avoid losing a tooth altogether.

How does periodontal disease manifest?

As the development of periodontal disease is often painless, it can be difficult to spot, which is why we are always keen to stress the important of routine check-ups even if your mouth feels in good health. Associated symptoms include chronic bad breath, bleeding gums, pus, tender gums and loose teeth, to name just a few.

How is periodontal disease treated?

After a thorough examination, should we find you are suffering from periodontal disease, we will clean the space between the tooth and gum where bacteria reside and help you apply a good at-home oral hygiene routine – a vital aspect of maintaining long-term oral health.

Possibly under local anaesthetic, we will perform a root surface debridement, to remove the bacteria that has accumulated under the gum line and sit along the length of your tooth.

Our aim is to keep you informed and educated along the way, so you have a clear understanding of how to avoid problems with gum disease in the future. We strive to help patients to develop a preventive mind set, so they feel confident about caring for their smile, for life.

Should the gum disease (periodontitis) be at a severe or advanced stage, we may invite you to visit Dr Katherine Daley, who has a special interet in periodontics and can assess and plan for future tailored treatment, tackling more challenging cases. Dr Daley can manage the case personally, and review for progress whilst working alongside our team of hygeineists when suitable. This in-house service allows prompt, efficient and comfortable treatment making sure the gum disease process is in control.

How will I benefit from treatment?

It may seem an exaggeration to suggest the benefits of managing periodontal disease are life-changing, but they truly can be. By undergoing treatment, not only will you be protecting your teeth and gums, you will reduce your susceptibility to exacerbating general health problems associated with gum disease, including heart disease and diabetes.

Hygienist appointments at Oatlands Dental Lounge

Regular visits to the hygienists ensure harmful amounts of plaque and tartar are not allowed to build up to the point of no return. Where there is evidence of severe gum disease, we will perform a deep clean and reassess and maintain this will regular routine cleanings thereafter. By working in close communication, your hygienists and dentist can identify the best way to improve your gum health in the long term, and set you on the path to a healthier smile.

We also offer state-of-the-art Airflow® Polishing, which is highly effective in reaching difficult areas of the mouth, and in combatting bad breath.