Gum Treatment at Lightwood Dental
Ferntree Gully Periodontal Therapy
Approximately half of all adults have some form of gum disease but may not realise it. Better known as periodontitis, this oral infection affects both the stability of teeth as well as the overall immune system.
Symptoms of periodontal disease include things like:
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Receding gumlines
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Heavy tartar and plaque build-up
- Tooth mobility
- Redness or swelling
- A bad taste in your mouth
Gum disease starts out as gingivitis. When left untreated, plaque biofilm accumulates deeper under the gingival tissue, triggering detachment of the ligaments that hold the tooth in place. This process causes the development of deep “pockets” between the teeth and the gingiva. When viewed on an X-ray, bone loss can also be seen around the affected areas.
The Risk to Your Health
Individuals with gum disease are much more likely to experience medical problems like pneumonia, diabetes, stroke, heart attack, infertility and premature labour. By eliminating the oral infection from their bodies, our patients can enhance their overall health and ability for their immune system to ward off other underlying issues.
Soft Tissue Therapy
Periodontal treatments typically involve a series of scaling and root planings to remove calcified bacteria below the gumlines. If the areas are sensitive, local anaesthetic may be used. Pocket reduction and bone regeneration may be needed to stabilise pockets of advanced disease, to prevent loss of the teeth.
Want to Learn More?
If you suspect that you have periodontitis or gum disease runs in your family, we invite you to schedule a comprehensive exam with Lightwood Dental at your earliest convenience.
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