Periodontics
Periodontal Disease (often referred to as Gum Disease) damages the gums and limits their ability to protect teeth. This is the greatest cause of tooth loss in adults.
Importance of Periodontics
Periodontal disease is the result of plaque (colourless bacteria that forms on teeth). Essentially, periodontal disease is an infection of the gum tissue. An infection of this tissue can result in receeding gums and possibly lead to tooth loss.
Is it affecting you?
You may be suffering from Periodontal disease if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms;
• Pain while chewing
• Red, sore, swollen gums
• Bleeding gums whilst brushing or flossing your teeth
• Build up of calculus (tartar)
• Bad breath or bad taste
• Loss of teeth
• Teeth sensitivity to hot and cold
• Changes in bite
• Gums that have withdrawn from teeth and in between teeth
• Loose teeth
• Gaps between the teeth
Periodontal disease is a treatable condition. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, please let your dental hygienist know.
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease (more commonly known as gum disease) is an inflammatory disease of the supporting structures of the teeth. These structures include gingiva (gum), periodontal ligament and alveolar bone (part of the jaw bone). The gingiva, being the most superficial tissue, provides most of the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease such as swelling, redness, bleeding and recession of the gums. When inflammation is confined to the superficial layer (the gingiva), the condition is known as Gingivitis. This is a very common condition affecting adults and children alike. When inflammation spreads to deeper structures (such as bone) the condition is known as Periodontitis.
What causes periodontal disease?
Bacteria in the mouth are usually responsible for causing Gingivitis and Periodontitis. The build-up of bacteria known as dental plaque can lead to gum inflammation (gingivitis). If gingivitis is allowed to go untreated for a long time, small pockets between the gums and the teeth can develop. As the bacteria progress deeper into the tissues, destruction of the underlying bone and periodontal ligament may occur. Progression of this disease may lead to tooth loss.
What treatment is involved?
Gum disease causes permanent damage to the supporting tissues. The aim of treatment is to stop the progression of the disease through controlling the bacteria. In the vast majority of cases the progression of gum disease is prevented or stopped quickly with adequate oral hygiene and a periodontal management therapy program prescribed by your dentist.
Management of gum disease becomes more difficult and less predictable the more advanced the disease. Therefore, early diagnosis is best. If you have any symptoms of gum disease, please call the practice. Regular dental examinations are important to check for the presence of gum disease.
To manage and treat gum disease, the bacteria must be reduced to a level the body’s defence mechanisms can handle. Treatment usually involves:
• achieving the best possible oral health at home.
• professional cleaning of the teeth above and below the gum line (into the pockets) to remove the plaque and hard deposits (calculus / tartar) .
• regular reviews and maintenance by your dentist.
• eliminate risk factors such as smoking.
To a large extent periodontitis may be prevented by good oral hygiene and early intervention when problems are identified.
Specialisation
Periodontics is the specialty of dentistry which encompasses the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the supporting and surrounding tissues of the teeth. Dr Andrew Boorer is trained in managing periodontal problems and may also use his dental hygienist to assist in your care. You may be referred to a Periodontist if either Dr Boorer or our hygienist considers your condition needs more advanced care. A specialist periodontist has gained additional qualifications and experience to satisfy the requirements of the State Dental Board and may therefore use the title “Periodontist”.