Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is the number one cause of adult tooth loss in Australia today. Of even more concern is the recently discovered link between severe periodontal disease and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke, and now oral cancer, in humans.
How do you know if you have gum disease? Healthy gums are firm and pink. When plaque builds up, healthy gums tend to swell and become a darker red. This condition is known as gingivitis. If the plaque starts to creep below the gum-line, the gingivitis can deteriorate into a condition known as periodontitis, an inflammation that can erode the ligament and bone beneath the gums, creating deep pockets that foster the growth of destructive bacteria.
Periodontal disease develops gradually over a period of months or even years, and there are often no warning signs. Some of the most common symptoms include bleeding, red or swollen gums, loose teeth, gums that pull away from teeth and bad breath. We offer state-of-the-art technology when diagnosing periodontal disease.
Traditional treatment for gum disease includes the use of antibiotics and root planing (deep cleaning of the bacteria-filled pockets), and, when necessary, uncomfortable, time-consuming and expensive surgery.
Today, however, it is becoming easier for dentists and patients to work together to prevent gum disease, or to catch it at its earliest stages before extensive therapy is needed and before tooth loss is likely. It is never too late to take good care of your teeth. With treatment and a continuing commitment to oral health care, health can be restored to diseased gums and tissue.
If teeth are already missing, Cosmetic Dentistry techniques such as Porcelain Crowns, Porcelain Bridges, Implants or Cosmetic Dentures are all options to cosmetically replace missing teeth. We believe in preventative periodontics and want you to maintain your teeth for a lifetime. Current research also demonstrates that the treatment of severe periodontal or gum disease reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke in patients.
