Periodontal treatment

What is it?

Periodontal disease can result in inflammation and bacterial infection of the gums surrounding the teeth. The bacteria that are associated with periodontal disease can travel into the bloodstream to other parts of the body, and that puts general health at risk. There is a proven link between gum disease, heart disease, diabetes, respiratory diseases and premature, low birth weight babies. Severe gum disease may also lead to bone loss, which will result in loosening and eventually lead to loss of teeth. In most cases this is reversible if treatment is sought early.

Common Signs

• Bleeding Gums
• Bad taste or breath
  
• Swollen and red gums
• Receding gums
  
• Loose or spreading teeth
• Gum abscess
  
• Hard calculus (tartar) on teeth

Causes

Periodontal disease is caused by Plaque, a colourless film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. If not removed daily it mixes with sugars and starches in the diet to form acids. Plaques irritate the gums causing them to become red, tender and swollen. If not removed it hardens to become calculus around the necks of the teeth.                   

Treatment

Periodontal disease can be treated .Treatment is individually tailored to each patient. It may include several visits to the hygienist or dentist or in severe cases a periodontist. There will be home care required, which will involve brushing, use of prescribed rinses and in some severe cases antibiotics will be given.