bleeding, swollen, receding gums
Periodontal Gum Treatments
Diseases of the gum (Periodontal disease) cause inflammation and loss of the healthy attachment of the tooth to the gum and jaw bone. The best treatment is prevention, and if caught early simple hygiene measures may be all that is needed to regain control.
Gum Disease, if untreated, is a major cause of tooth loss
From minimally invasive techniques to correct recession of the gums that give a “long-in-the-tooth” appearance, to more advanced corrective surgery to treat periodontal disease, we can help you restore your gums and save your teeth.
Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease
- Red swollen gums
- bleeding gums after brushing
- bad breath
- loose teeth
- gum abscesses
- receding gums
What is the cause of Gum Disease?
The bacteria and saliva in your mouth combine to form a sticky film known as plaque. If this is not cleaned efficiently every day, it builds up on your teeth, and can lead to inflammation and decay.
healthy gums protect your teeth
Gingivitis Treatment
You need to protect your teeth from gum disease, because if it is allowed to progress, a ‘pocket’ develops between the tooth and the gum, and bone around the tooth is lost. If you notice that your gums bleed when brushed or are slightly swollen (and there may be no obvious signs), it is important to have regular dental reviews and hygienist sessions.
Teeth compromised by the presence of deep pockets and the loss of the supporting bone, become loose and may move or drift, causing collapse of the ‘bite’, and unsightly spacing. Gum disease is the most important cause of adult tooth loss, and will lead to the need for more extensive treatments, such as Dental Implants.
Smile Rejuvenation
Gum Recession Treatment
There are a number of techniques to correct recession; treatment is very much dependant on the severity of the problem and the thickness of the nearby gum tissues – thick gums are less prone to recession. Sometimes it is possible to cover exposed root surfaces by a small surgical procedure to move the gum tissues back into their original position. This is a minimally invasive technique, and as there is no need to use a graft, the tissues heal quickly. However, if the tissues are ‘thin’ a graft may be needed in order to increase the bulk of the tissue.
We can regenerate lost bone
Regenerative Therapy
Regenerative procedures are used to promote formation of new bone around the effected tooth root.
There are a number of techniques to correct recession; treatment is very much dependant on the severity of the problem and the thickness of the nearby gum tissues – thick gums are less prone to recession. Sometimes it is possible to cover exposed root surfaces by a small surgical procedure to move the gum tissues back into their original position.
This is a minimally invasive technique, and as there is no need to use a graft, the tissues heal quickly. However, if the tissues are ‘thin’ a graft may be needed in order to increase the bulk of the tissue.
Replacing lost gum tissue
Gum Grafting
This new grafted tissue may be brought in from another part of the mouth, e.g. the roof of the mouth, but in some cases, it may be possible to use a re-absorbable 3D collagen matrix, which would eliminate the need for a second surgical site. Slight swelling and discomfort is sometimes experienced after the surgery – but this has rarely been a problem.
This treatment is available to most healthy patients who look after their mouths well. Smoking can jeopardise our success – if you do smoke, then it is important that you refrain from smoking at the time of the treatment.
