Care for Periodontitis
& Gum Disease in Torquay, Hervey Bay
Periodontitis, commonly known as gum disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It’s caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and can harden into tartar if not removed through regular brushing and flossing.
Symptoms of Gum Problems
Symptoms of gum disease include swollen, red, or bleeding gums, bad breath, gum recession, tooth sensitivity, and loose teeth. In its early stages, gum disease may not cause noticeable symptoms, which is why regular dental check-ups and cleanings are crucial for early detection and treatment.
Untreated gum disease can result in tooth loss and has also been linked to various systemic health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues. This underscores the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and seeking timely dental care to prevent and manage gum disease.
Treatment for Patients
Treatment for gum problems can vary depending on the severity of the case. In mild to moderate cases, non-surgical deep cleaning procedures like scaling and root planing can be done to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline and smooth the tooth roots to remove bacteria and provide a clean surface for gum reattachment.
Antibacterial medications such as antimicrobial mouthwashes, gels, or antibiotics may also be prescribed to reduce the bacterial load in the gum pockets and control the infection.
In more advanced cases of gum disease, surgical interventions like flap surgery or pocket reduction surgery may be necessary to access and remove deep-seated tartar, reduce pocket depth, and reposition gum tissue to promote healing. Our team may also perform bone grafting procedures to regenerate lost bone and promote bone regrowth for improved stability and support of the teeth.
It’s important to note that gum disease is a chronic condition, and ongoing maintenance and management are typically required to keep the condition under control and maintain optimal oral health. Regular follow-up visits for periodontal maintenance, which may involve more frequent cleanings and check-ups, are crucial to monitor the condition and prevent relapse after treatment.
In addition to professional treatments, we also provide education on proper oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing techniques, and offer recommendations on lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and managing systemic health conditions, to help manage and prevent gum disease.
Keep Your Mouth Healthy
Don’t let gum disease go untreated. Seek timely dental care and maintain good oral hygiene practices to prevent and manage gum disease for optimal oral and overall health. Contact us today at (07) 4124 8569 to schedule an appointment and learn more about managing gum disease.
