Periodontal Treatments
Periodontics is the branch of dentistry primarily concerned with the health of the gums and bone which support the teeth. Gum disease may be superficial gingivitis or more extensive periodontitis. Healthy gums and underlying bone are vital to the retention of teeth; and periodontitis may also be linked with several general health conditions.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease:
In many cases patients will be unaware that they have gum disease, as gingivitis and periodontitis can be pain-free. Some of the symptoms may include:
- Swollen gums
- Bleeding gums
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Loose or mobile teeth
- Drifting teeth
- Tartar build-up
- Painful swelling around individual teeth
Occasionally gum disease is so severe that a referral must be made to a periodontist, or the patient may be in danger of losing a tooth or multiple teeth. The periodontist works with the patient to restore their mouth to health, and thereafter in most cases the patient is returned to the care of their regular dentist and hygienist.
Extensive information about periodontal diseases and periodontic treatments is available at the website of the American Academy of Periodontology: www.perio.org or alternatively
Gum Disease
A healthy tooth. Plaque builds up. Gum and bone may begin to recede. Sometimes the gum recedes with the bone and sometimes it doesn’t. Either way the tooth may become mobile.
Tartar Build Up
Tartar builds up around all teeth, if plaque is not cleaned away. Minerals contained in saliva and the position of the saliva glands means the lower front teeth are particularly susceptible. Left unchecked the plaque will destroy the bond between the teeth and gums inflame the gum and cause important bone to be lost. In extreme cases the build-up of tartar can be so great, as to force the teeth apart.
Probe Measurement
Measuring the depth of periodontal pockets is a common technique which will help establish the patient’s condition and measure the change in that condition. A special probe is used and measurements recorded in order.
Root Planing
Left unchecked, plaque and calculus build up on the teeth above AND below the gum line. First we measure the depth of the pocket. The plaque and tartar can easily be removed above the gum. Below the gumline takes longer. It is essential that ALL the plaque is removed to encourage the gum to re-attach to the tooth. The pocket depth will then reduce over time.