Periodontics

Gum disease, or to use it’s more correct term periodontal disease, is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the tooth supporting tissues. The presence of dental plaque, in a susceptible individual, results in inflammation of the gums (gingivae), and this inflammation in turn causes the underlying bone to dissolve, compromising the foundations and support for the tooth. For most of those affected, the condition is not severe and it can be effectively treated by regular therapy from your own dentist or hygienist. For approximately 10-15% of sufferers the condition is more serious, and specialist care is usually required, to help prevent drifting and movement of teeth, or early multiple or complete tooth loss. There is also some evidence to suggest that chronic untreated gum disease can increase the risk of other conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.

The exact cause of gum disease, and why it affects some individuals more than others, is not yet completely understood. It is an extremely complex disease process involving an interaction between plaque bacteria and the patients immune and inflammatory system. In effect there is a constant battle between the host’s defence system and the plaque bacteria, and the collateral damage results in destruction of the local bone. Once the bone is destroyed, it pulls the gum down along the root of the tooth causing gum recession. This bone will never regenerate even when the disease is ultimately controlled, meaning that early intervention is critical.

Essential Facts:

• Bleeding gums is not normal
• Receeding gums and tooth loss is not a normal part of ageing. It usually indicates the presence of uncontrolled gum disease
• Gum disease has can effect on your overall health and can increase the risk of development of heart disease, diabetes and other conditions
• Gum disease does not mean that the sufferer is unhygienic, it just indicates that the patient is susceptible to the disease
• Gum disease is a “silent” disease and it may not be obvious to a patient that they suffer from this condition. Regular screening by a dentist is essential
• If there is a family history of gum disease, other members of the family should be screened to determine their periodontal status
• Gum disease is a major cause of tooth loss.
• Treatment of gum disease enjoys a very high success rate
• The cost of successful therapy is usually far less than the cost of replacing the diseased teeth

How is gum disease treated?

Once a diagnosis has been reached, a treatment plan is provided that reflects the level of disease severity and treatment need. Initial treatment generally involves a discussion regarding the control of risk factors and oral hygiene instruction. Treatment then usually involves a phase of deep cleaning, also known as root planning, under local anaesthesia. This can take up to 4  appointments. It also requires development of a new daily oral hygiene regimen which needs to be regularly assessed and modified. In some cases minor localised surgery will be required. Regular reviews are an essential part of initial therapy. Long term successful therapy requires regular hygienist therapy.