gum disease

Periodontal disease and its precursor gingivitis, is one of the most common disease processes, with almost everyone affected by it at some stage of their life. Periodontal disease is a broad name for a collection of inflammatory diseases affecting the gum tissues that surround and support the teeth. It usually progresses with little or no pain, and many are unaware that they have the disease. However, it is usually obvious to the trained eye of the dental team.

Your dentist will concentrate their efforts to identify whether, and to what extent you have a problem, and explain how you may prevent it.

Where possible, it is more economical to have this treatment with the hygienist rather than the dentist. The hygienist main role is in prevention of gum disease and spends most of their day treating it. Your dentist can carry out the cleaning for you, but their time is also needed for other dental treatment which the hygienist is not qualified to carry out.

In situations where the disease has advanced to a more server stage a Periodontist (Dentist who has undertaken more detailed training on gums and more advanced techniques) can help to treat the problem. Although it cannot be “cured” it is usually possible to substantially improve the situation.