The Treatment of Gum Disease…
Periodontal disease is a chronic and serious inflammation and infection of the gums that also has the ability to affect the bone that supports your teeth. There are various stages to gum infection and disease. As gum infections progress and become more serious, treatments also may become more involved.
Common signs of gum disease include:
- red, swollen, tender, painful or bleeding gums
- gums that have shrunk away from the teeth
- persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
- abscesses between teeth and gums
- changes in tooth positions, appearance of gaps and loose teeth
- the fit of a denture has changed
Your dentist believe prevention and early detection of gum disease is key to ensuring successful treatment. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, please contact the friendly staff at Warners Bay Dental to arrange an appointment.
What is gum disease?
Periodontal disease affects the supporting tissues, such as gums and bone and is caused by the bacteria in your mouth. Healthy gum tissue will have a shallow pocket of 1-3mm around each tooth, while gums affected by periodontal disease will have greater pockets. Other signs of gum disease are red/purple gums, progressively loose teeth and excessive migration of teeth.
If bacteria is allowed to accumulate below the gum line for extended periods of time, it hardens on the roots of the tooth structure and creates an inflammatory response that signals your body to destroy the bone and ligaments supporting your teeth.
Why does this happen to me?
Inadequate brushing and flossing, smoking, diabetes and genetics can increase the risk of developing periodontal disease.
What is the treatment for periodontal disease and can the affects be reversed?
Treatment for periodontal disease involves identification of the disease, determining the severity, discussing with your dentist ideal oral hygiene practices (such as correct brushing techniques; management of a dry mouth) and cleaning of the hardened plaque and bacteria along the root surfaces.
Unfortunately the gums will not grow back; in fact they may recede slightly after treatment. The main purpose of treatment is to prevent further gum swelling and loss.
How can I minimise the risk of developing gum disease?
It is essential that you maintain good oral hygiene and receive regular preventative care from your dentist.