Periodontics

What is periodontal disease?

Gum disease, if left untreated, can develop and become a more serious condition when excess plaque causes an inflammatory response in the gum tissue that surrounds the teeth. The biggest risk factor for periodontal disease is poor oral hygiene and smoking. Some medical conditions such as poorly controlled diabetes, unhealthy diet and stress are also factors in the development of the disease along with genetics.

What is periodontitis?

Gum disease, with its symptoms of bleeding and swollen gums, is experienced by many people at some point. Periodontitis is an advanced form of gum disease that requires treatment and, if not managed, can cause damage to the supporting structures of the teeth and eventually tooth loss.

It is now possible to see our practice hygienist directly without an initial appointment with a dentist if you have concerns. It is important to have regular hygiene visits if you have been struggling to manage gum disease as the disease remains the most common cause of tooth loss in adults.

What treatments are available?

Treatment for periodontitis, including periodontal surgery, is available to our patients at Six Gables Dental Practice to help promote healing and restore gum health. Periodontal surgery might involve deep cleaning pockets that have formed around the teeth to remove any build-up of tartar or plaque and is known as deep scaling. The roots of the teeth can also be smoothed to prevent further build-up.

Regular hygiene appointments to monitor the condition are also beneficial, along with a commitment to home-based hygiene with regular brushing and flossing or the use of interdental brushes to maintain gum health.