Periodontics
South Cliff Dental Group provides advanced gum treatment, restoring the health of these tissues through a range of procedures.
What is Periodontics?
Periodontics is the dentistry branch that assists patients with gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. Gum disease is caused by a build-up of dental plaque, a natural and sticky substance covering the teeth. When too much plaque occurs, it can result in gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease.
The good news is that plaque is typically easy to manage. But once the plaque hardens and turns into tartar, removing it becomes more difficult.
PREVENTATIVE DENTAL CARE
Dental hygienists have the tools, training and expertise to clean your teeth much better than you can at home. These experts in dental hygiene not only help you achieve better oral health but can advise you on better brushing techniques and tools to use at home.
Protecting your dental hygiene is crucial to prevent decay, gum disease and other issues that may create more complex problems in the future. By taking the correct measures to protect your teeth, you could avoid dealing with advanced treatments in the future.
Preventative dental care is a combination of regular dental check-ups along with developing and maintaining good habits like brushing and flossing.
Preventing Periodontal Disease
When tartar is left untreated, tooth decay, cavities and other dental complications like periodontal disease can develop. As the disease progresses, it attacks the tissues holding the teeth in place, including the gums and jaw.
Good oral hygiene and cleanings can help prevent periodontal disease. Book a regular cleaning at one of our South Cliff Dental Group practices to stay on top of your oral healthcare. Or, if you would like to see a periodontist, contact us for a consultation where we can assess your gum health and provide the best treatment plan options for your needs.
Signs of Gingivitis
Gingivitis happens when the gums around the teeth become inflamed. Redness and bleeding gums are often the first signs of gingivitis. Detection at an early stage is vital to prevent periodontitis and other oral complications from developing.
Signs of Periodontitis
Periodontitis affects the deeper tooth-supporting structures and is an inflammatory disease. Due to ongoing bacterial infections in the gum tissues, periodontitis results in irreversible bone loss around the teeth. Early periodontitis signs include tooth sensitivity, receding gum lines, inflamed gums and loose teeth.
Common Periodontal Treatments
At South Cliff Dental Group, our periodontists can determine the right treatment option for you at any stage of your gum health.
Common periodontal treatments are both surgical and non-surgical.
Treatments include:
- Scaling and root planing
- Periodontal bone regeneration
- Crown lengthening
- Laser gum treatment
- Plastic surgery for root coverage
Risks of Periodontal Disease
Gum disease is very common, even in its early stages. If left untreated, severe tissue damage can occur, leading to bone loss. As a result, teeth become loose and may lead to extraction.
Periodontitis can lead to other health issues, such as strokes, heart disease, respiratory issues and more. This risk makes prioritising oral healthcare habits and maintenance vital for overall health. Other factors, including smoking, diabetes, cancer, hormonal changes and more, also increase the likelihood of getting periodontitis.
If you’re worried about your gums or think you might have periodontitis, book a time to see a South Cliff dentist at a location convenient to you.
Preventing Gum Disease at Home
Follow these steps on a regular basis to maintain good gum health and hygiene:
- Floss daily to clean the gaps between each tooth
- Brush using fluoride toothpaste twice a day for at least two minutes
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash to prevent bacteria growth
- Replace your toothbrush every three to four months
- Reduce sugar intake
- Avoid smoking
Book your next appointment
Every dental practice in the South Cliff Dental Group provides comprehensive dental hygiene appointments. Whether you are in or around Sussex, Kent, Southampton, Hampshire or Wiltshire, a South Cliff dental practice is nearby.
For more information on hygiene visits or other dental treatments, please contact us to get in touch with a South Cliff dental practice near you.