Gum Problems & Treatment

The sticky film that constantly forms around your teeth is called plaque, and is made up mostly of bacteria. Some of these bacteria produce by products that can damage the attachment of the gums, periodontal ligament and bone to your teeth.

Plaque that is not removed regularly can harden into a rough porous deposit called calculus or tarter. Tarter itself does not seem to cause disease, but it may make it more difficult for you to remove plaque so it should be removed regularly. Tarter can only be removed when your teeth are professionally cleaned at our dental clinic.

 DO SOME FACTORS INCREASE THE RISK OF DEVELOPING PERIODONTAL DISEASE?

Yes, some factors can increase the risk of developing periodontal disease.

If one or more of the following apply to you it is especially important that you practice good oral hygiene and follow Dr. Joshua’s advice to maintain healthy teeth and gums.:-

• People who chew or smoke tobacco
• Some systemic diseases, such as diabetes, can lower your body’s resistance to infection, making periodontal disease more severe.
• Many medications, such as steroids, some types of anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, some calcium channel blockers and oral contraceptives can affect the gums.
  In addition, medications that can reduce your salivary flow can result in a chronically dry mouth, which can irritate your oral soft tissues.Let Dr. Joshua know about your medications and update your medical history at the dental clinic when any changes occur.
• Crowns and Bridges that can no longer fit properly, crooked teeth or fillings that have become defective can contribute to plaque retention and increase your risk of developing periodontal disease.
• Pregnancy or use of oral contraceptives increases hormone levels that can cause gum tissue to be more sensitive to the toxins and enzymes produced by plaque and can accelerate growth of some bacteria. The gums are more likely to become red, tender, swollen and can bleed easily.

HOW IS PERIODONTAL DISEASE TREATED?

Treatment methods depend upon the type of disease and how far the condition has progressed. The first step usually is a thorough deep cleaning that includes scaling to remove plaque and tarter deposits. The tooth roots also may be planed to smooth the root surface, allowing the gum tissue to heal and reattach to the tooth. In some cases, the occlusion, or bite, may require adjustment.

 IS SURGERY SOMETIMES NEEDED?

When very deep pockets are present between the gums and teeth, it is difficult to thoroughly remove the plaque and tarter even with dental instruments. With surgery, we can access hard to reach areas that require the removal of tartar and plaque. The tooth root is cleaned and smoothed. Sometimes the bone around the tooth also is smoothed to help remove these pockets.

The gums then are sutured back into place or into a new position that will be easier to keep clean at home. Bone surgery may be used to rebuild or reshape bone that has been destroyed. Grafts of the patient’s bone or artificial bone may be used as well as special membranes. Splints, bite guards, or other appliances are used to stabilise loose teeth to aid the regeneration of tissue during healing.

If excessive gum tissue that has been lost from the root of the tooth (gum recession),a gum graft may be performed. After surgery, a protective dressing over the teeth and gums is usually applied. An antibiotic and mild pain reliever may be prescribed.

HOW DO I PREVENT PERIODONTAL DISEASE FROM REOCCURRING?

Good oral hygiene at home is essential to help keep periodontal disease from becoming more serious or reoccurring. Dr. Joshua may also want to see you at regular intervals. You may need to schedule more frequent visits then you have in the past. You don’t have to lose teeth to periodontal disease. Brush, clean between your teeth, eat a balanced diet and schedule regular dental visits for a lifetime of healthy smiles.