Periodontics covers all care relating to the prevention and treatment of gum disease. As periodontitis is one of the leading causes of tooth loss, early and thorough treatment is crucial to maintain gum health and control the spread of infection.
Book a consultationIf plaque and bacteria is allowed to build up on the teeth and gums, and not effectively removed with regular brushing and hygiene treatment, it can lead to inflammation on the gums. This is known as gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, and also carries symptoms including red shiny gums and bleeding while brushing.
If gingivitis is left untreated, it can lead to periodontitis, a more advanced stage. The gums begin to recede, forming pockets between the gum and tooth that fill with plaque and are much harder to clean. Over time, this will lead to infection and eventually tooth loss. Periodontitis is not reversible, but can be controlled to prevent it worsening.
Book a consultationIn most cases, periodontitis is preventable and will be spotted and treated at your routine dental appointments. It is usually caused by poor dental hygiene combined with an exaggerated response to the infection from your gum tissue.
Our specialist periodontist is highly trained in diagnosing and managing advanced gum issues. She is experienced in procedures including root planing to remove plaque and bacteria from below the gum line, and pocket reduction surgery to reduce some of the symptoms and causes of gum disease.
Our periodontist is also able to give detailed advice on your oral health routine at home and how this could be improved to ensure any treatment is successful and control the level of disease present.
If gum disease is present, your dentist and hygienist will keep an eye on it at your routine appointments and advice on the steps that need to be taken to reverse or control it. If the level of gum disease progresses, they may refer you to the periodontist for more specialist treatment at the appropriate time.
The treatment shouldn’t be painful, but it is likely that you will feel some discomfort or soreness. We use local anaesthetic and take the time to ensure you are feeling relaxed before beginning any procedure.
We are happy to help answer your questions or discuss your treatment options - please get in touch.
