Periodontics Cheltenham

Periodontics focuses on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases of the gingiva, or “gums”, and other surrounding tissues.

Periodontists maintain the health, function, and aesthetics of these structures and tissues.

They are familiar with the modern techniques for diagnosing and treating gum disease and are also trained in performing cosmetic periodontal procedures.

Periodontists often treat more problematic cases, such as those with severe gum disease or complex medical history.

Periodontists can also treat patients with serious gum problems using a range of surgical procedures.

In addition to all of that, periodontists are also specially trained in the placement, maintenance, and repair of dental implants.

Periodontal Diseases: Gingivitis and Periodontitis

Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria in dental plaque.

In an effort to eliminate the bacteria, the cells of your immune system release substances that cause inflammation and damage to the gums, periodontal ligament, or alveolar bone.

This leads to swollen, bleeding gums, signs of gingivitis, and loosening of the teeth, a sign of severe periodontitis.

Gingivitis (early stage of periodontal disease) is the inflammation and infection of the gums.

Periodontitis (advanced stage of disease) is a more severe form of infection that involves not only the gums but the periodontal structures around the base of the teeth.

In severe cases, periodontitis may lead to severe toothache and even loss of the tooth.

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

You may have periodontal disease and not even know it. Often, there is no pain, and periodontal diseases may not show symptoms until serious bone loss happens.

It is important to see your Cheltenham dentist or periodontist as soon as you experience any of these symptoms:

• Red, swollen and/or tender gums
• Bleeding gums (when brushing or flossing)
• Receding gums
• Loose or separating teeth
• Pus between the gums and teeth
• Persistent bad breath
• Change in your bite and/or fit of removable dentures

Diagnosis

A dentist can only diagnose periodontitis by looking at the signs and symptoms and carrying out a dental examination.

The dentist will probably insert a periodontal probe next to a tooth, under the gumline. If the tooth is healthy, the probe should not slide far below the gumline.

In cases of periodontitis, the probe will reach deeper under the gumline. The dentist will measure how far it reaches.

An X-ray may help evaluate the condition of the jawbone and teeth.

Periodontal Disease Treatment

Periodontal disease treatment is focused on removing plaque and bacterial deposits on your teeth and gums.

Oral Hygiene Practices

Your Cheltenham dental team will give you instructions on how to eliminate bacteria in your mouth, which involves keeping your teeth and gums clean, ALWAYS.

Your dentist will advise on how to use toothbrushes and floss properly and may recommend other oral hygiene practices to add to your routine.

Here are a few tips for keeping your teeth healthy from your Cheltenham dentist:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Floss at least once a day to remove plaque from hard-to-reach areas.
• Visit your Cheltenham dentist at least twice a year for check-ups and professional cleaning.
• Don’t smoke or chew tobacco products.

Professional Cleanings

During a professional cleaning, your Cheltenham dentist removes plaque build-up and tartar from your teeth and their roots, polishes your teeth and treats them with fluoride.

Periodontal pockets that have formed may require deep cleaning to promote healing.

A deep-cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing helps scrape off tartar and remove any rough spots on the tooth root where bacteria tend to thrive.

Surgery

If inflammation persists in hard-to-reach areas, your dentist may recommend a surgical procedure called flap surgery to clean deposits underneath your gums.

While under anaesthesia, your gums are lifted away, and the roots of your teeth cleaned and disinfected. Your gums are then stitched back into place.

If you’ve had any lost bone, a procedure known as bone grafting may be performed, along with the flap surgery to regenerate the lost bone.

Periodontics in Cheltenham

A simple periodontal disease, if left untreated, can lead to severe problems that can affect not just your teeth and gums but also your general health. Visit your dental clinic in Cheltenham for a consultation today!

Periodontics in Cheltenham

For more information on periodontics in Cheltenham, call us on (03) 9553 1249. Visit us on the web, or use our convenient online booking page.

We are located at 36 Chesterville Road in Cheltenham.