What is Periodontal
Disease?
Peridontal disease is an infection affecting the gums,
bone and other supporting tissues of the teeth. It is
caused by plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria that
forms constantly on all our teeth. Statistics from the
UK adult dental health survey (1998) showed that nearly
three quarters (72%) of dentate adults have some visible
plaque on their teeth. Most of us have a less serous form
of reversible inflammation called GINGIVITIS from time
to time. Those who have the more severe form called PERIODONTITIS,
are at greater risk of losing teeth as they become loose,
fall out or have to be removed by the dentist.
Why do some people have worse gum disease than
others? Some of us may be more genetically predisposed
to severe periodontal disease and a number of other factors
affect disease severity. Family history, stress and tobacco
smoking are important contributing factors. Certain general
diseases such as diabetes may also make some one more
prone to periodontal disease.
Quitting smoking
is especially important as it can reduce the risk
of developing gum problems and increase the effectiveness
of gum treatment.
Giving
Up Smoking
It's not easy... So that's why this web site is
here. Giving up smoking requires preparation, determination,
and support. This site is here to help you with
each of these. If you're thinking about giving up,
have a look-in.
Mouth Cancer Foundation
Smoking increases your chance of developing mouth
cancer. The Mouth Cancer Foudation provides information
on mouth, throat and other head and neck cancers
as well as an online support group.
What are the signs of gum disease?
The signs and symptoms are variable but may include
the following:
Bleeding on tooth brushing.
Red, swollen and possible tender gums
Persistent bad breath
Gums that have pulled away from the teeth (pocketing)
Receding gums (getting long in the teeth)
Loose teeth or teeth that have changed position
Pus or discharge around the gums
A change in the way the teeth bite together
What should you do if you think you have
gum disease?
The first thing to do is visit your dentist for a thorough
check up of your teeth and gums. The dentist will then
decide if a referral to a periodontist is necessary.
The periodontist will take measurements of the gum crevices
or pockets around your teeth and X-rays are likely to
be taken. Following this a diagnosis and detailed advice
of any necessary treatment will be given to you.
X-ray's: The Progression of Periodontal/Gum
Disease.
Normal Bone to Sever Bone Loss and Loose Teeth
How is gum disease treated? Regular visits to your dentist are essential
if gum problems are to be prevented or recognised and
treated.
Treatment will depend on the type of gum disease present
and how serious or advanced the condition is. It will
often include instruction and help with specific oral
hygiene methods to control the bacteria that collect
on our teeth.
There may also be a need for the dentist or hygienist
to carry out meticulous tooth cleaning both above and
below the gum line, in order to remove as much of the
tartar and plaque deposits. Antibiotics may occasionally
be used. If the conditions are right these measures
will encourage the gums to heal and stop the disease
progressing.
Removal of hard deposits above and below the Gums.
Special Hand Instruments and Ultrasonic Scalers
are used.
The mouth is numbed with local anesthesia.
More serious disease may require the use of
a wide variety of surgical techniques. Some of these
techniques in certain situations may allow for gum recession
to be treated in order to improve the overall appearance.
Following treatment, a period of
ongoing maintenance is almost required to monitor
the gums and prevent or treat any areas if the disease
returns. A periodontist, hygienist or dentist may
provide this care.
Opposite: before & after periodontal
therapy
A commitment to maintenance treatment is a
commitment to better heath.
Charges
Consultation
from
£95
Non Surgical periodontal treatment
hourly rate from
£150
Surgical treatment
hourly rate from
£180
Referrals
If you would like to refer a patient, click here.
Patients are invited to attend for a periodontal consultation
appointment. The number of appointments and the time
needed for a course of treatment will vary from patient
to patient, and this will be discussed during the course
of the initial consultation.
