Low Cost Periodontal Treatment

It’s just as important to have healthy gums as it is to have healthy teeth. Unfortunately, many people have some level of gum disease and, therefore, need some form of periodontal treatment.

Left untreated, unhealthy gums can led to tooth decay, loss and several other conditions so it is always a focus of all of our dentists to encourage the maintenance of healthy gums.

The symptoms of gum disease

There are a number of signs of gum disease and these include red and swollen gums and bleeding when brushing or flushing.

Symptoms of more serious disease include having bad breath, an unpleasant taste in the mouth, loose teeth and the formation of abscesses under the teeth or gums.

The causes

Gum disease is caused by the build-up of plaque, an acidic substance that is created when sugary or carbohydrate-rich foods and drinks are consumed and there isn’t frequent-enough brushing and flossing to disperse it.

Plaque, and a substance called tartar that’s created when it solidifies, can get under the gum line and cause irritation. There can be a number of other factors including smoking, stress and a poor diet. People with diabetes, pregnant women and those with a weakened immune system can also be more at risk.

Treatment

One of the check-ups the dentist will carry out will be for gum health. Looking at different parts of the mouth a score will be recorded ranging from 0 meaning perfect health up to 4 in which gum disease is present.

Usually, it is simply a question of improving oral health by:

  • Brushing for 2 minutes twice a day.
  • Using a toothpaste that includes fluoride.
  • Flossing or using interdental brushes every day.
  • Not smoking.

The dentist may well also recommend a scale and polish, often by one of the practice hygienists which will remove all of the offending plaque and tartar.

For more severe cases of gum disease, a deep clean right under the gums called root planing may be needed. This will involve scraping the bacteria off and may well need a local anaesthetic and feel painful for a couple of days after it’s been done.

In very extreme cases, tooth removal and periodontal surgery can be needed.

Periodontal Treatment FAQ

Can mouthwash prevent gum disease?

No, mouthwash alone can’t prevent gum disease because only effective brushing and flossing will remove plaque. But an anti-bacterial kind of mouthwash will help to create better oral health generally which will contribute to preventing gum disease from starting.


Why is smoking a risk factor?

People who smoke have weakened immune systems so if a smoker does have gum disease the body is less able to fight it off. And, once gum disease is established, smoking greatly slows down the healing process.


Can antibiotics treat gum disease?

Generally, antibiotics aren’t used for most gum disease. But there is a specific condition called acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG) that sometimes needs a 3-day course to get it under control.

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