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Periodontics

The health of your gums is essential to your overall oral wellbeing. Gums act as the foundation to your smile, providing crucial support and protection to your teeth. When gum tissue becomes under attack from bacteria present in tartar and plaque, it can progress to gum disease. This is easy to treat in its early stages, but if left untreated, it can develop into periodontitis, which is a life-long condition.

What is periodontics?

Periodontics is the field of dentistry concerned with maintaining the health of your gums and supporting tissues. This includes treating and managing gum disease and carrying out gum treatments such as gum grafts to improve your level of oral health.

Our advanced periodontal treatment is a stage further than standard hygiene care. It is best suited to patients with active gum disease (periodontal disease). Periodontitis causes supporting bone to be lost around the teeth and this cannot be reversed. However, with hard work it might be possible to have healthy gums again or at least stabilise the gum disease. Keeping on top of the condition and preventing it from causing further damage is key.


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What does periodontal treatment involve?

If you need more in-depth care to control your gum disease, we begin with a thorough assessment, examining your teeth and noting where treatment is needed. There may be a variety of treatment options for you, so we discuss these with you.

We create your bespoke treatment plan, including the number of appointments you will need to get your gum disease stable and controlled. The treatment could include advice on cleaning techniques (your cleaning is the most essential part of treating gum disease), and deep cleaning (debridement and disruption of biofilm) below the gum line, among others. We give you tips and advice tailored to your individual case throughout your treatment and encourage you to ask us any questions you may have. In some cases, specialist referral may be recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is gum disease?

Gum disease is a condition caused through the immune system reacting to the presence of bacteria in plaque deposits on your teeth. Plaque builds up as a result of accumulation of bacteria. The microscopic build-up of bacteria is called biofilm. Regular brushing removes most of the plaque that builds up during the day and disrupts the biofilm, but some areas are hard to reach, particularly around the gum line and between the teeth. These plaque deposits irritate the gum tissue, causing it to become inflamed and leading to the development of gum disease.

What are the symptoms of gum disease?

The early stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis, causes swollen and red gums, bleeding gums, sensitivity to temperature and bad breath. Gingivitis can be reversed with timely and careful treatment, returning your gums to full health once more. If left untreated, however, it can lead to periodontitis, a more destructive stage.

Why does gum disease need to be treated?

If gum disease is not treated in the early stages, the gums start to recede as the tissue breaks down. This forms pockets between the gum and tooth, creating vulnerable areas for bacteria to enter. This more destructive stage is periodontitis and can be controlled through maintenance. If left to continue, periodontitis can lead to tooth loss.

Does periodontal treatment hurt?

If needed, we can use local anaesthetic to minimise any discomfort during your periodontal treatment. This completely numbs the affected area and therefore your treatment will not hurt. Once the anaesthetic wears off, your gums may feel tender, but this does not last long.

How do I know if I need advanced treatment for gum disease?

Gum disease often goes unnoticed. You may experience some bleeding but there is no pain or other issues until a very advanced stage is reached. Your dentist will check your gums at every dental health check and let you know if there are any areas of concern or if more treatment is required.

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