Periodontics
Every patient thinks about their teeth, but few think about their gums. It is the gums and the bone that hold teeth in place. When gums recede, the teeth look longer and in time they can become loose.
Periodontics is the branch of dentistry that deals with diseases of the tissues around the teeth. Current estimates suggest that only about 6% of Poles have completely healthy periodontal tissues, and these conditions are the second most common cause of tooth loss in adults, after tooth decay.
Receding gums: how are they treated?
Periodontics treats disease in the tissues around the teeth. Looking after your teeth should also mean having the whole mouth checked regularly, because gum disease is one of the main causes of tooth loss in adults. It all begins with plaque, so a great deal depends on daily brushing, flossing and having tartar removed regularly. Consistent periodontal care, including an examination and radiographs when needed, is the key to a healthy mouth.
When is periodontal treatment needed?
Healthy gums and bone support the teeth and protect their roots from bacteria. If your gums become infected or start to recede, the teeth can be damaged and may even be lost. So look after the health of your mouth and see a dentist if you notice anything unusual. Signs to watch for:
- swollen gums,
- bright red or purple gums,
- gums that are tender to the touch,
- gums pulling away from the teeth (receding), which makes the teeth look longer than usual,
- new gaps appearing between the teeth,
- pus between the teeth and gums,
- bad breath,
- a bad taste in the mouth,
- loose teeth,
- a change in the way your teeth meet when you bite.
More information
Picking up gum disease early gives a better chance of quicker and more effective treatment. There is no reason to wait until poor oral health leads to serious problems. Whenever you come to us for a check-up and a clean, we examine your teeth and gums to see whether they are healthy. If something needs treating, we explain what it involves and what the outcome depends on. If you have gum disease, we start by removing tartar and plaque, because they keep the inflammation going. We use ultrasonic scaling and air polishing for this.
Consultation
If you would like to know more, come in for a consultation.
At the consultation we examine the gums and the tissues around the teeth, and go through the findings with you straight away.
You can call us Monday to Friday, 8:00 to 19:00
Consultation
If you would like to know more, come in for a consultation.
Call Monday to Friday, 8:00 to 19:00.