The word periodontal literally means “around the tooth.” Periodontal (gum) diseases, including gingivitis and periodontitis, are serious infections which if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss. Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth. It begins when the bacteria in plaque (the sticky, colourless film that constantly forms on your teeth) causes the gum to become inflamed.
In the mildest form of the disease, gingivitis, the gums redden, swell and bleed easily. There is usually little or no discomfort. Gingivitis is often caused by inadequate oral hygiene. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good oral home care.
Untreated gingivitis can advance to periodontitis.
Without proper management this situation can progress to involve more and more of the roots which causes your teeth to become loose and eventually even fall out or have to be removed. 70% of adult tooth loss is caused by gum disease. It is often called a silent disease because there may be no pain or obvious symptoms, until the disease becomes advanced
The main cause of periodontal disease is bacterial plaque, a sticky, colourless film that constantly forms on your teeth. However, the following factors also affect the health of your gums.
The trouble with gum disease is that people can have it for years without noticing it. General oral maintenance is essential for all patients. It’s not only about avoiding decay and fillings but involves looking after your gums. Therefore to prevent and treat gum disease every patient should adhere to the following daily:-
Regular hygienist visits are essential in order to monitor a patient’s dental health and identifying signs of periodontal disease. For this reason Dr Howdle and his hygienist work together closely in the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease.
An essential part of anyone’s smile, is not just the teeth but also the gums which surround the teeth. For the appearance not to have a ‘gummy’ look, dentists often go by no more than 2mm of gum showing. In order to create the ideal gum line, gum sometimes needs to be added (cosmetic soft tissue grafting) or removed (gum lifts) to give the ideal result to your smile, using specialist gum sculpting techniques. We offer both of these procedures at Crescent Dental Care.
A soft tissue graft can reduce further recession and bone loss. In some cases it can cover exposed roots to protect them from decay. This may reduce tooth sensitivity and improve the aesthetics of your smile. A beautiful new smile and improved periodontal health – your keys to smiling, eating and speaking with comfort and confidence.
Gum Lifts (Crown Lengthening) are available at Crescent Dental Care to lay the groundwork for restorative and cosmetic dentistry and/or to improve the aesthetics of your gum line. Perhaps your tooth is decayed, broken below the gum line or has insufficient tooth structure for a restoration, such as a crown or bridge. Crown lengthening adjusts the gum and bone levels to expose more of the tooth so it can be restored.
With NO initial deposit necessary, you can spread the cost of treatment over 10, 12 or 24 months. Start your treatment immediately with a payment option tailored for your needs. Subject to status, T&Cs apply.
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