Gum Disease Treatment
WHAT IS GUM DISEASE?
Maintaining the health of your gums is essential for protecting and securing your teeth in their rightful place. Gum disease, also known as Periodontitis, is an infection that affects your gum tissue and can lead to severe consequences.
As gum disease progresses, it gradually destroys the gum tissue and underlying bone structure. This can result in tooth looseness and, in advanced stages, even tooth loss. It’s important to note that the damage caused by gum disease is irreversible, and your dentist can only prevent further deterioration.
Maintaining good oral hygiene, which includes brushing and flossing your teeth twice daily, can help prevent gum disease. Taking care of your teeth and gums is crucial to your oral health and maintaining a healthy smile. Regular check-ups and cleanings with your dentist are also crucial in keeping gum disease at bay. While your toothbrush is effective in removing plaque, once tartar has formed, only your dentist can safely remove it.
By prioritizing oral hygiene and scheduling routine visits to your dentist, you can take proactive measures to safeguard your gum health, ensuring a beautiful smile and preventing the progression of gum disease.
HOW WOULD I KNOW IF I HAVE GUM DISEASE?
Gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease/periodontitis, is caused by the accumulation of plaque, resulting in inflammation and swelling of the gums. One common sign of gingivitis is bleeding gums when brushing your teeth. The good news is that gingivitis can be reversed, with minimal long-term effects. If left untreated, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis. Therefore, it’s crucial to seek professional dental help as soon as you notice any signs of gum disease to prevent its progression.
Both gingivitis and periodontitis share common symptoms, including:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gum bleeding during and after brushing
- Receding gumline
- Gum soreness
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums
It is crucial to accurately identify and treat gingivitis to prevent its progression into gum disease/periodontitis. Periodontitis is a serious condition that requires immediate treatment to avoid tooth loss. Additionally, in certain cases, periodontitis can increase the risk of other health conditions such as stroke, heart disease, diabetes, and more. Since distinguishing between gingivitis and gum disease/periodontitis can be challenging, it is essential to consult a dentist for an accurate diagnosis of your oral health condition.
Gingivitis is a reversible condition, and with proper treatment, the progression of gum disease/periodontitis can be halted. When you visit Dr Maher, he will assess the stage of your condition to develop an appropriate treatment plan.
In many cases, a simple Scale and Clean is sufficient. This deep-cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar from both above and below the gumline. In some instances, Root Planing may be necessary, which involves smoothing rough areas to eliminate bacteria and provide a clean surface for your gums to reattach to your teeth. These procedures are non-invasive and non-surgical, requiring minimal to no healing time. To learn more about these procedures, we can provide detailed information.
If your gum disease has progressed further, more advanced surgical treatments may be required. Dr Maher will discuss all available options with you, including flap surgery, soft tissue grafts, and other potential treatments, to determine the most suitable approach for your specific needs.
Schedule a consultation with our highly acclaimed dentist to have a comprehensive assessment of your oral health and address any specific concerns you may have. We are conveniently located in the heart of Prestons (South West)
