Gum disease is a common condition, and recognising it early makes a significant difference in how it is managed. Left untreated, it can affect the health of your gums, teeth, and supporting bone.
At The Point Dental, we provide a range of treatment options depending on the stage and severity of your condition. This guide covers what gum disease is, how it progresses, and the treatments available.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an inflammatory condition that affects the gums and the structures supporting your teeth. It develops when plaque builds up along the gum line, leading to irritation or infection.
Early signs include swollen, red, or bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can progress to receding gums, loose teeth, and bone loss.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Symptoms can include:
- Bad breath
- Pus between gums and teeth
- Bleeding gums
- Swollen or tender gums
- Receding gums
- Dry mouth
- Pain while chewing
- Loose or sensitive teeth
Causes of Gum Disease
The primary cause is plaque buildup on the teeth. Other contributing factors include poor oral hygiene, smoking, poor nutrition, and hormonal changes.
The Stages of Gum Disease
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. Gums may become red, swollen, and bleed easily. It is often painless, which means it can go unnoticed. However, without treatment, it can progress to more serious stages.
Periodontitis
If gingivitis is not addressed, it can develop into periodontitis. At this stage, plaque spreads below the gum line, and the bacteria and toxins produced begin to break down the bone supporting the teeth. The gums may start to separate from the teeth, increasing the risk of infection and tooth loss.
Gum Disease Treatment
The right treatment depends on the severity of your condition. Mild cases can often be managed non-surgically, while more advanced stages may require surgical intervention.
Treatment timelines also vary. Early-stage gum disease may improve within a couple of weeks with proper care, while more advanced cases may involve longer treatment plans.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Improved Oral Hygiene
Early gingivitis can often be managed with consistent oral hygiene habits:
- Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing daily
- Regular professional cleans
Depending on severity, more frequent cleaning appointments may be recommended.
Scaling and Root Planing
This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smooths the root surfaces to help prevent bacteria from reattaching. It is often used to slow or stop the progression of gum disease.
Laser Periodontal Therapy
Laser therapy uses a small laser to remove diseased tissue and target bacteria. It is a non-invasive option with no cuts or incisions, and the precision of the laser allows for a more targeted treatment with less discomfort.
Surgical Treatments
Flap Surgery
Incisions are made along the gum line so the gums can be temporarily moved back, allowing the dentist to clean plaque and tartar from the tooth roots. The gums are then secured back into place with stitches. This approach allows for a deeper clean than non-surgical options.
Bone and Gum Grafting
Grafting uses your own tissue, donated tissue, or synthetic material to rebuild areas weakened by gum disease. A bone graft acts as scaffolding, holding space while new bone regenerates. These procedures help restore the structural support around your teeth.
Guided Tissue Regeneration
If gum disease has created gaps between the tooth root and bone, a membrane may be placed in the affected area. This prevents gum tissue from growing where bone should be, allowing the body to regenerate bone around the tooth.
How The Point Dental Can Help
At The Point Dental, we offer a range of treatment options for every stage of gum disease. For patients whose teeth have been significantly affected, we also provide restorative solutions, including dental implants such as All-on-4.
For patients who experience dental anxiety, sleep dentistry is available to help ensure a comfortable experience.
If you would like to discuss your options, contact our team today or book a consultation online.