Periodontal Treatment

Periodontal disease affects the gums, bone and other supporting tissues of the teeth.  It is caused and sustained by dental plaque. Bacteria found in plaque produce toxins or poisons, which irritate the gums.
Although most individuals suffer gum inflammation from time to time, around 10% of the population appear to suffer from the more severe forms of the disease which cause loss of supporting bone. This group appears to be at greatest risk of losing teeth through periodontal disease.

Why do some people suffer from this problem and not others?
Our knowledge is improving all the time of why this is, although 3 major factors are thought to be responsible:

• Family history
• Stress
• Smoking

Stopping smoking is an important part of reducing the risk of developing the disease. Certain general diseases such as diabetes may also make an individual more susceptible.

What are the signs of periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease usually progresses with few obvious signs and symptoms. The following are the most common symptoms of periodontal diseases:

• Bleeding gums
• Red, swollen or tender gums
• Loose and mobile teeth
• Persistent bad breath
• Bad taste
• A change in the way teeth fit together when you bite

However, it is possible to have the disease and not be aware of these signs. It is essential to attend a general dental practitioner regularly so that special assessment techniques, sometimes including x-rays, can be carried out as part of your routine dental examinations.
If untreated, the disease can eventually cause irreversible damage to the gums and bone surrounding the teeth, leading to tooth loss.
However, the disease develops very slowly in most people, and it can be slowed down to a rate that should allow you to keep most of your teeth for life.

What should I do if I think I might have the disease?
Regular dental examinations by a general dental practitioner will ensure that a correct, and timely diagnosis is made. The dentist will then be able to advise you on any necessary treatment. This will often include instruction in specific oral hygiene methods to help you control the bacteria that collect on your teeth. There may also be a need to carry out some professional cleaning of your teeth. Most cases of periodontal disease can be successfully treated by your dentist and hygienist using simple methods such as these. Occasionally, more complex treatments are required and your dentist will advise you accordingly.

What else may be needed?
If gum problems still persist your dentist may decide to refer you to a Periodontist, a dentist who has specialized in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of Gum Diseases. Periodontology is an entire branch of dentistry dedicated to studying the tissues surrounding the teeth and researching new techniques for treating these diseases. During advanced, postgraduate training, over 3 to 4 years, Specialists in Periodontics learn the very latest techniques for diagnosing and treating Periodontal Diseases, gaining a detailed scientific background on all aspects.
The Specialist may carry out further deep cleaning of the roots of the teeth under the gums, to make sure that the last reservoirs of bacteria are removed. This is usually carried out after making the treatment area numb.
Severe or persistent periodontal problems may require Periodontal Surgery, but your Periodontitst will fully explain the procedure, the benefits and expected outcome to you so you can decide if you wish to save your teeth.

Once I have had periodontal disease, can I get it again?
Periodontal disease is never cured. But as long as you keep up the home care you have been taught, any further loss of bone will be very slow and it may stop altogether. Your Periodontist may recommend a supportive maintenance program tailored for you. It is essential that you maintain a good standard of oral hygiene in order to prevent relapse, or further progression.