Advanced gum disease treatments in Thatcham
Working in tandem with our hygiene team, we offer a range of treatments to reverse or halt the progress of gum disease
Gum disease treatment, also called periodontics
At Dental Partners Thatcham, our dentists work closely with our hygienists so that, together, we can educate patients on the tooth care practices that stop gum disease in its tracks. Good oral health has a proven link to your overall health – so look after your gums, and you could be mitigating against a host of other conditions too, from heart disease to diabetes and cancer.
Gum disease is the number-one cause of tooth loss – yet many patients don’t take it seriously until it is too late. The problem with gum disease is that it can take decades to reveal itself, which is why it’s known as the silent disease. The good thing about gum disease is that it is entirely preventable and often reversible; it’s down to you to create and stick to a good oral hygiene regime.
Periodontal treatment in Thatcham
As with all our services, periodontal treatment at Dental Partners Thatcham is individually tailored to meet your specific needs. We always aim to begin with the least invasive approach, using non-surgical means. This involves decontamination and thorough professional cleaning of the root surfaces, under the deep periodontal pockets. This is the cornerstone of periodontal therapy and, in many cases will be the only treatment you require. Non-surgical management can include any of the following:
- Scaling and root surface debridement
- Bacterial analysis and antimicrobial therapy
- Occlusal analysis and adjustment
- Splinting of teeth and instruction about plaque control
Advanced periodontal treatment
In more advanced cases, a range of minor surgical procedures are used to smooth or correct defects and irregularities in the bone and soft tissue surrounding the diseased teeth, with the ultimate aim of re-establishing periodontal health. These include:
- Pocket Reduction Procedures
- Regenerative Procedures
- Crown Lengthening
- Soft Tissue Grafting
- Cosmetic Procedures
You may need to be referred to a specialist for advanced periodontal treatment – we will advise you if this is necessary during your consultation.
FAQs
What is periodontitis and what causes it?
Periodontitis means ‘inflammation of the supporting structures that hold the tooth in the jaw’ and is the clinical term for advanced gum disease. The cause is often poor dental hygiene – plaque build-up that eventually damages the gums. Periodontitis is a serious infection that, if left untreated, can cause serious damage to gums and destroy the jawbone – even leading to the need for tooth removal.
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Can periodontitis be cured?
Periodontal disease is the aggravated form of gingivitis. However, unlike gingivitis, which can be reversed with daily brushing and flossing, periodontitis can usually only be treated and kept under control. A consultation with our periodontist will help you know for sure which treatment option you’ll require.
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Is periodontal disease contagious?
Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria in the gums – and thus, there is a risk that the infection can be carried via salvia. However, while kissing and close contact with shared food, utensils, etc. could potentially transmit the disease, the overwhelming cause of periodontal disease is poor dental hygiene.
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What are the symptoms of periodontitis?
Symptoms of periodontitis include swollen, red and tender gums, bad breath, toothache, or loose teeth. However, you need a dentist to exam and diagnose this – or any dental condition – as there may be few or no symptoms. Gum disease can remain undetected for decades, which is why it’s vital you attend regular dental check-ups and hygiene appointments throughout your life.
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