Periodontal Care in Sunderland: Protecting Your Gums

When we think about dental care, we often focus on our teeth. However, healthy gums are just as crucial to maintaining a beautiful smile and overall oral health. Periodontal care, which focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating gum disease, is an essential part of comprehensive dental care.

At Sunderland Dentists, we offer expert periodontal services to help you keep your gums healthy and prevent serious issues down the line.

In this guide, we’ll explore the importance of periodontal care, the signs of gum disease, and the treatments available to protect your gums.

What is Periodontal Care?

Periodontal care is the branch of dentistry that deals with the health of your gums and the supporting structures of your teeth, including the bone. Periodontal (gum) disease is a common but preventable condition that can lead to tooth loss if not treated promptly. Regular periodontal care helps to maintain the health of your gums, prevent disease, and treat any existing conditions before they become severe.

Why is Periodontal Health Important?

Your gums play a vital role in your oral health. They act as a protective barrier around your teeth, keeping harmful bacteria out and supporting your teeth in their sockets. When your gums are healthy, they’re firm and pink, and they fit snugly around your teeth. However, when gum disease develops, it can lead to serious consequences, including tooth loss, bone deterioration, and even systemic health issues like heart disease and diabetes.

At Sunderland Dentists, we’ve seen many cases where early intervention and regular periodontal care have saved patients from the more severe stages of gum disease. One patient, who initially came in for a routine check-up, was found to have early-stage gum disease. Thanks to prompt treatment and ongoing care, they were able to reverse the condition and maintain healthy gums.

Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease

Gum disease often develops without causing noticeable pain, which is why regular dental check-ups are so important. However, there are some signs and symptoms you can look out for:

• Red, Swollen Gums: Healthy gums should be pink and firm. If your gums are red, swollen, or tender, it could be an early sign of gum disease.
• Bleeding Gums: Gums that bleed easily, especially when brushing or flossing, are often a sign of gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease.
• Persistent Bad Breath: Bad breath that doesn’t go away, even with good oral hygiene, can be a sign of gum disease.
• Receding Gums: If your gums are pulling away from your teeth, making them look longer, this is a sign of gum recession, often associated with periodontal disease.
• Loose Teeth: As gum disease progresses, it can cause the bone that supports your teeth to deteriorate, leading to loose or shifting teeth.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek periodontal care as soon as possible. Early treatment is key to preventing the progression of gum disease and protecting your oral health.

Stages of Gum Disease

Gum disease progresses in stages, each with increasing severity:

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, characterised by red, swollen gums that may bleed easily. It’s caused by the build-up of plaque along the gum line, which irritates the gums. The good news is that gingivitis is reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene.

Periodontitis

If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis. At this stage, the inner layer of the gums and bone begin to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that become infected. As the disease progresses, the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place are destroyed. Periodontitis requires more intensive treatment to manage and prevent further damage.

Advanced Periodontitis

In advanced periodontitis, the bone and gum tissue supporting the teeth are severely damaged, leading to loose teeth that may need to be removed. This stage of gum disease can also have serious implications for your overall health, as the infection can spread beyond the gums.

Periodontal Treatments at Sunderland Dentists

At Sunderland Dentists, we offer a range of periodontal treatments designed to prevent, manage, and treat gum disease at all stages. Here’s an overview of the services we provide:

Professional Cleaning (Prophylaxis)

The first line of defence against gum disease is regular professional cleaning. During a cleaning, our dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar build-up from your teeth and below the gum line, where your toothbrush and floss can’t reach. Regular cleanings are essential for preventing gingivitis and keeping your gums healthy.

Scaling and Root Planing

For patients with early-stage gum disease, we may recommend scaling and root planing. This deep-cleaning procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line (scaling) and smoothing the root surfaces of your teeth (root planing). Smoothing the roots helps the gums reattach to the teeth and reduces the depth of the pockets that form during periodontitis.

Periodontal Surgery

In more advanced cases of gum disease, periodontal surgery may be necessary to restore gum health. There are several types of periodontal surgery, including:

• Pocket Reduction Surgery: This procedure reduces the depth of the pockets that form between the gums and teeth, making it easier to clean and prevent further disease.
• Gum Grafting: Gum grafting involves taking tissue from another part of your mouth and attaching it to the affected area to cover exposed roots and prevent further gum recession.
• Bone Grafting: If gum disease has caused bone loss, bone grafting can help regenerate lost bone and provide a solid foundation for your teeth.

Maintenance and Aftercare

After periodontal treatment, maintaining your results is crucial. We’ll work with you to create a personalised maintenance plan that includes regular check-ups, professional cleanings, and guidance on effective oral hygiene practices. Consistent care is key to preventing the recurrence of gum disease and keeping your gums healthy for life.

Preventing Gum Disease: Tips for Healthy Gums

Preventing gum disease is a lifelong commitment to good oral hygiene and regular dental care. Here are some tips to help you keep your gums healthy:

• Brush Twice a Day: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth at least twice a day, focusing on the gum line.
• Floss Daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under the gum line, areas your toothbrush can’t reach.
• Use Mouthwash: An antimicrobial mouthwash can help reduce plaque and prevent gingivitis.
• Regular Dental Visits: Schedule regular check-ups and cleanings at Sunderland Dentists to catch any early signs of gum disease and keep your gums healthy.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease and can make it harder for your gums to heal after treatment.

We’ve seen the difference these simple practices can make for our patients. One patient who had a history of gingivitis was able to completely turn their gum health around by following a consistent oral hygiene routine and attending regular cleanings.

Final Thoughts

Your gums are the foundation of your oral health, and taking care of them is essential for a healthy, beautiful smile.

At Sunderland Dentists, we’re dedicated to providing top-quality periodontal care to help you prevent, manage, and treat gum disease at every stage. Whether you’re in need of a routine cleaning or more advanced treatment, our team is here to support you.

If you’re concerned about your gum health or it’s been a while since your last check-up, don’t wait – contact Sunderland Dentists today to schedule an appointment.

Let us help you keep your gums and your smile in the best possible shape.