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.

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, including:

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 a Free Periodontal Consultation

Treating and restoring the health of your gums as early as possible is essential to avoid periodontal disease. Visit a practise for your gum needs or book an appointment at one of our locations in West Sussex, East Sussex, Kent, Hampshire or Wiltshire.