GUM/ PERIODONTAL DISEASE

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Gum/Periodontal Disease

	What is Periodontal Disease?
	A disease which affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Gingivitis is the early stage of periodontal disease. The gum tissue becomes red and swollen and bleeds easily. There is little discomfort at this stage. If untreated, the disease can eventually cause irreversible damage to the gums and bone surrounding the teeth.

	What causes Periodontal Disease?
	The main cause is dental plaque. Plaque is an almost invisible sticky film of bacteria, which constantly forms on the teeth. The toxins produced by the bacteria irritate and a “pocket” forms. If the plaque remains undisturbed, the pocket can deepen and the bone supporting the tooth may be permanently damaged. By carefully cleaning your teeth each day you can help prevent periodontal disease or prevent it advancing to a more destructive stage.

	What are the symptoms of Periodontal Disease?
	The most important symptom is bleeding gums, since this is an early sign. In the more advanced stages of periodontal disease, bone and tissue supporting the teeth are destroyed. As the disease progresses teeth can become loose or drift apart. The teeth may eventually fall out or require extraction due to abscesses.

	Whom does Periodontal Disease affect?
	Periodontal disease at one time or another affects most of it and us may affect people who otherwise appear quite healthy. The more serious types of periodontal disease usually become apparent in early middle age, although some severe forms can affect young people. General illness, such as diabetes may increase susceptibility to periodontal disease. Other factors such as smoking adversely influence disease progression and response to treatment.

	What can I do?
	First, you should learn about periodontal disease, what causes it, how it can be prevented and how it is treated. For more details, talk to your dentist of hygienist. Once you know the facts, you will realise the major role in preventing periodontal disease and its destructive complications. Your daily tooth cleaning makes the difference between control and active disease.

	Why treat Periodontal Disease?
	To preserve the natural teeth in comfort and function. Without treatment, infection can progress leading to the loss of bone supporting the tooth and ultimately, of the tooth itself. Treatment could be considered for other reasons, including bleeding or “puffy” gums and bad breath. The aims of the treatment are firstly to remove plaque and secondly to eliminate the environment which they survive, namely the “pocket”.

	Can loose teeth be tightened?
	Loose teeth may become firmer after periodontal treatment. However, teeth, which remain less firm after treatment, can continue to function adequately for many years. If the degree of looseness is a problem, stability may be achieved by splinting teeth together by various means.

	What is the cost of the treatment?
	Treatment costs depend on the nature and severity of the disease and a fee estimate will be included with the treatment plan, which you will receive after consultation.

	How long will the treatment take?
	Treatment time depends on the nature and severity of the disease, and can take from a few days to many months. The treatment plan will include an estimate of the number of appointments for the duration of the treatment.

	What happens after treatment?
	Following active treatment periodontal maintenance therapy will be essential to monitor the tissues and review your home care. This will involve appointments with the dental hygienist and periodical check-ups with the dentist.

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Kent. TN17 3EE

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Website updated 15 March 2024