Gum Disease

Gum treatment

There are two major stages of periodontal disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. The earlier stage, gingivitis, is a mild form of gum disease caused by plaque build-up around the gum line which causes inflammation of the gums. If you neglect to brush or floss your teeth daily, this plaque build-up will trap bacteria and cause gum disease. Your gums will appear red and swollen, and you could experience bleeding when you brush or floss. If properly treated, it may be reversed.

Left untreated, gingivitis turns into periodontitis. During this more destructive disease stage, the supporting bones and fibres that hold your teeth in place have been irreversibly damaged, as bacteria penetrate the deeper pockets of tissue. Immediate treatment is necessary to prevent further damage and tooth loss.

Gum disease usually progresses slowly and painlessly, meaning it can take years for sufferers to realise there is a problem – but it is easier to treat when it’s caught early.

According to research, gum disease affects 3 out of every 4 adults over the age of 35 in the UK. About 15% of the population appear to suffer from more severe forms of the disease, which caused rapid loss of supporting bone. This group appears to be at greatest risk of losing teeth through periodontal disease caused by the toxins produced by bacteria which regularly collect on the teeth.

The best way to avoid or manage gum disease is by practising good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly.

Why do some people suffer from this problem and not others?

Around 15% of the population is susceptible. Our knowledge is improving all the time of why this is, although 3 major factors are thought to be responsible: family history, stress and smoking. Stopping smoking is an important part of reducing the risk of developing the disease. Certain general diseases such as diabetes may also make an individual more susceptible.

What are some risk factors?

You may be at risk for gum disease if any of the following apply to you:

• Tobacco and alcohol use
• Systematic diseases (such as diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, cancer)
• Genetics
• Pregnancy
• Stress

In addition, the following types of prescription drugs may also increase the risk of gum disease.

Talk with your dentist if you are taking:

• Steroids
• Cancer therapy drugs
• Oral contraceptives
• An anti-epilepsy drug
• A calcium channel blocker

Symptoms of periodontal disease

Gum disease is considered a “silent” disease because pain does not always accompany warning signs. See your dentist if you experience:

• Red, swollen or tender gums
• Bleeding gums when you brush your teeth
• Loose teeth
• Persistent bad breath
• A bad taste in your mouth
• Gum abscesses
• Receding gums

Periodontal Disease Treatment

Periodontal treatment methods depend upon the type and severity of the disease. Our specialist team will evaluate for periodontal disease and recommend the appropriate treatment.

How the hygienist treats your gum disease is largely dependent upon the stage of your infection and the amount of deterioration involving your gums, teeth, supporting tissues and bone.

After full assessment, the hygienist will discuss your treatment options, answer questions, and explain what happens:

• During and after the procedure(s)
• Possible complications, risks, benefits and costs of treatment
• The number of visits required for treatment
• What to do post-treatment as your gums heal
• How to keep gum disease under control after treatment is complete (maintenance programme)
• After your treatment has ended, thorough maintenance is essential for the long-term success of your treatment and to maintain your oral health.

Non-surgical Treatments

Professional Mechanical Plaque Removal
The early stages of gum disease may only require non-surgical treatment. The most well-known type of non-surgical treatment is known professional mechanical plaque removal, a minor procedure involves careful removal of plaque and tartar from the affected gums to remove any bacterial toxins. During this procedure, your hygienist will remove harmful bacteria and irritants from deep beneath your gums to prevent plaque from accumulating again. Most patients will not need any further treatment, although we recommend visiting our hygienists regularly to maintain your oral health.

With much fewer bacteria in your mouth, the healing and tissue regeneration process will be faster and more effective. This non-invasive procedure preserves the healthy gum tissue instead of removing the healthy gum with diseased tissue. After the area is thoroughly cleaned, the body can heal the area naturally.

Maintenance

Plaque, a sticky film, continuously forms on tooth surfaces. Once your periodontal treatment has been completed, we recommend you book periodontal cleaning by a hygienist or dentist x times a year