Gum Disease Treatment

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It typically starts with gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease, characterised by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form that can lead to tooth loss and other systemic health issues.

Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease

Be aware of the following signs and symptoms that may indicate gum disease:

• Red, Swollen, or Bleeding Gums: Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing, or appear inflamed and red.

• Persistent Bad Breath: Foul-smelling breath that doesn’t go away with regular brushing.

• Receding Gums: Gums that pull away from your teeth, causing them to appear longer.

• Loose or Shifting Teeth: Teeth that become loose or shift position, which can affect your bite.

• Pain or Discomfort: Persistent pain or discomfort in the gums or teeth.

Our Approach to Gum Disease Treatment

1. Initial Evaluation:  We begin with a comprehensive examination to assess the extent of your gum disease. This includes taking the depth of gum pockets around six sites on each tooth and taking x-rays to evaluate the health of your bone structure.

2. Scaling and Root Planing:For early-stage gum disease (gingivitis), we perform a thorough professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar build-up from above and below the gum line. This helps to smooth the tooth roots and promote healing.

3. Antibiotic Treatment: In some cases, we may prescribe antibiotics or antimicrobial treatments to help control infection and reduce inflammation.

4. Periodontal Maintenance: After initial treatment, ongoing periodontal maintenance appointments are crucial. These visits involve regular cleanings and monitoring to prevent recurrence and ensure that your gums remain healthy.

5. Surgical Interventions (if necessary): For advanced cases of periodontitis, surgical options may be considered with one of the friendly specialist periodontists that we work closely with . These procedures may involve flap surgery to clean deep pockets or grafts to restore lost tissue.

6. Personalised Care and Education: We’ll work with you to develop a personalised care plan that includes recommendations for improving your oral hygiene at home. Proper brushing, flossing, and lifestyle changes are key to preventing gum disease from returning.

Why is Gum Disease Treatment Important?

Treating gum disease is essential for preventing tooth loss and maintaining overall oral health. Gum disease has been linked to other health issues, such as heart disease and diabetes, so addressing it promptly can have a positive impact on your overall well-being.

What to Expect During Your Treatment

When you come to Smile Connections for gum disease treatment, you can expect a supportive and thorough approach. Our team will explain each step of the process, address any questions you may have, and ensure that you are comfortable throughout your treatment.