What happens when we ignore bleeding gums ?
As discussed in the previous blog about bleeding gums, Gingivitis which when left untreated can progress to more severe form of gum disease called periodontitis.
What is periodontitis ?
Perio = around; dontitis = inflammation of tooth. The inflammation of the supporting structures of the teeth leading to destruction and loosening of teeth is called periodontitis.All periodontitis develops out of Gingivitis but not all Gingivitis progresses to periodontitis.Depending on the sites affected in the mouth the periodontitis can be localised or generalised.
There are different types of periodontitis which we will discuss in the following blogs.
Diagnosis of periodontitis
The diagnosis is arrived by a thorough history taking, clinical and radiographic examination with special investigations.D
A Basic periodontal examination (BPE) is a technique used to screen and examine every tooth in the mouth except wisdom teeth.Bleeding index (BI) and plaque index (PI) also will be recorded. A radiographic examination with the help of X-Rays will help determine the bone loss surrounding the tooth. Another factor is the formation of pockets around the tooth,similar to our trouser pockets that harbour bacteria and contribute to the periodontitis.
How can I treat my periodontitis ?
Visit your dentist for a check up of your teeth and gums. Your dentist or hygienist will clean your teeth thoroughly and effectively to remove plaque.Sometimes this may take a number of sessions. Once your teeth are clean, your dentist will proceed further treatment of cleaning of the tooth below your gums along with the pockets that are harbouring the bacteria.
You do not need to worry as the area will be numbed and we at Brandon dental care will make it as comfortable as possible for you.
Can my periodontitis be cured ?
Providing the disease is discovered early, the patient cooperative with treatment and the risk factors eliminated then the periodontal disease is reversible. If those factors not met then the disease can be stubborn and may take years to stabilise.
Unfortunately periodontitis can’t be cured but we can definitely halt and control the progression of the gum condition further stopping the bone loss around the tooth.
The dentist and you will work as a team in this treatment. We at Brandon dental carewill do our best to stop the periodontitis and you must make sure you keep your teeth free of plaque by following meticulous oral hygiene and making sure you come for regular check ups with the dentist and hygienist.
If you have any such concerns you can contact us at 01842 810 753, 07727699419 to book an appointment or email
Contact@brandondentalcare.co.uk for more details.
Take care and keep smiling !