Gum Disease Treatment

Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It is primarily caused by the build-up of plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. If plaque doesn’t get removed through proper brushing and flossing, it solidifies into tartar which can cause irritation and inflammation in the gums.

There are two main stages of gum disease:

• Gingivitis: The early stage, which involves red, swollen gums that may bleed when brushed or flossed. Gingivitis can usually be reversed with good oral hygiene and professional cleaning.
• Periodontitis: The more advanced stage, where the gum tissue and bone supporting the teeth become damaged. Without treatment, periodontitis can lead to tooth loss.

At ARC Dental Surgery, we focus on early detection and tailored treatment to prevent the progression of gum disease and protect your smile.

Gum disease progresses through stages, from mild inflammation to severe infection that affects the bone supporting the teeth. Gum disease is easier to treat the sooner it is identified.

1. Gingivitis

This is the earliest stage of gum disease and is characterised by inflammation of the gums. It’s usually painless, which is why many people don’t realise they have it. At this stage, there’s no permanent damage, and gingivitis can be reversed with professional treatment and improved oral hygiene.

2. Periodontitis

If gingivitis is left untreated, it can advance to periodontitis. At this stage, the inner layer of the gums and bone begins to retract from the teeth, creating hollows where bacteria grows. The body’s immune response to the bacteria can cause loose teeth or tooth loss by destroying the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place.

At ARC Dental Surgery, our team can diagnose the stage of gum disease and provide the appropriate treatment to prevent further progression.

We offer a range of effective treatments for gum disease at ARC Dental Surgery, depending on the severity of the condition:

1. Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)

For patients with gum disease, we may recommend scaling and root planing, a non-surgical deep cleaning procedure. Root planing smoothes the tooth roots to stop more bacterial buildup while scaling eliminates plaque and tartar from both above and below the gum line. This procedure helps the gums reattach to the teeth, promoting healing.

2. Antibiotic Therapy

In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce the bacterial infection in the gums. Antibiotics can be used in conjunction with scaling and root planing to improve the treatment’s effectiveness.

3. Periodontal Surgery

For more advanced gum disease that cannot be managed with non-surgical methods, periodontal surgery may be necessary. Surgical options can include flap surgery to reduce pocket depth or bone grafting to restore lost bone tissue.

At ARC Dental Surgery, we will assess your condition and develop a personalised treatment plan to restore your gum health.

Gum disease is primarily caused by poor oral hygiene, but several other factors can contribute to its development:

1. Plaque Build-up

The main cause of gum disease is the accumulation of plaque on the teeth. When plaque isn’t eliminated by consistent brushing and flossing, it solidifies as tartar that can only be removed by a dentist.

2. Smoking and Tobacco Use

Smoking weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off gum infections. It is also one of the most significant risk factors for the development of gum disease.

3. Genetics

Some individuals may be more prone to gum disease due to their genetic makeup, even with good oral care.

4. Diabetes

People with diabetes are at a higher risk for gum disease due to poor blood sugar control, which can affect the body’s ability to heal and fight infections.

5. Hormonal Changes

Changes in hormone levels, such as during pregnancy or menopause, can make the gums more sensitive and vulnerable to gum disease.

6. Medications

Certain medications can reduce saliva flow, which plays an important role in protecting the teeth and gums. A dry mouth can increase the risk of gum disease.

The best way to combat gum disease is through prevention. Here are some tips to keep your gums healthy:

1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Brush your teeth twice daily and floss every day to get rid of plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gum line.

2. Regular Dental Check-ups

Make sure you book regular professional cleanings and check-ups. Regular dental visits allow us to detect any signs of gum disease early and address them before they become serious.

3. Quit Smoking

Giving up smoking or using tobacco products will greatly lower your risk of developing gum disease because smoking is a key risk factor for the condition.

4. Control Medical Conditions

If you have conditions like diabetes, work with your healthcare provider to manage your condition, as uncontrolled diabetes can increase your risk of gum disease.

5. Eat a Healthy Diet

A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports your oral health and helps keep your gums strong.

At ARC Dental Surgery, we’re dedicated to providing our patients with the best possible care for gum disease. Here’s why we’re the ideal choice:

1. Experienced Dentists

Our team of experienced dental professionals has extensive knowledge in diagnosing and treating gum disease, from early gingivitis to advanced periodontitis.

2. Personalised Treatment Plans

We believe in creating customised treatment plans for each patient, based on their individual needs and the severity of their gum disease.

3. Advanced Technology

We use the latest dental technology to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of gum disease. From deep cleaning to surgical intervention, we’re equipped to handle every stage of gum disease.

4. Comfortable and Caring Environment

Our dental practice is designed to provide a relaxing and comfortable experience for all patients, ensuring that your treatment is as stress-free as possible.