Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a progressive inflammatory condition affecting the gums and the supporting structures of the teeth. It starts with bacteria in dental plaque leading to gum inflammation characterised by symptoms such as redness, swelling, and bleeding.
Treating gum disease promptly is crucial for maintaining oral health and preventing more serious health issues. Our comprehensive treatment approach ensures effective management and prevention.
Prevents Progression
Early treatment prevents the progression from gingivitis to more severe periodontitis.
Maintains Oral Health
Regular treatment helps maintain healthy gums and teeth, preventing tooth loss.
Improves Overall Health
Managing gum disease can reduce the risk of associated health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
Our dental clinic in Brighton-Le-Sands conducts a comprehensive examination, including reviewing medical and dental histories, clinical examination, X-rays, and periodontal charting to accurately diagnose gum disease.
We offer a range of treatments tailored to the stage of the disease, including scaling and root planing, antibiotics, flap surgery, and grafts to regenerate lost bone or gum tissue.
We emphasise the importance of regular dental checkups, proper oral hygiene, and healthy lifestyle choices to prevent gum disease and maintain overall health.
Understanding the causes and risk factors of gum disease including poor oral hygiene, tobacco use, genetic susceptibility, medications, and chronic conditions like diabetes.
Recognising early symptoms such as red, swollen, or tender gums, bleeding while brushing or flossing, persistent bad breath or taste, receding gums, and loose teeth.
Gingivitis: Early stage marked by gum inflammation without bone loss.
Periodontitis: Gums begin to detach from teeth, creating pockets that can become infected, leading to connective tissue and bone destruction.
Advanced Periodontitis: Significant bone loss, loosening of teeth, and potential tooth loss if not treated effectively.
Reviewing Medical and Dental Histories: Understanding past conditions or medications affecting oral health.
Clinical Examination: Examining the gums for signs of inflammation and pocket depths.
X-Rays: Assessing bone level around teeth for signs of bone loss.
Periodontal Charting: Documenting health status of gums around each tooth.
Scaling and Root Planing: Deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line.
Antibiotics: To control bacterial infection.
Flap Surgery: Reducing periodontal pockets and enhancing ability to clean gums.
Grafts: Regenerating any bone or gum tissue lost to periodontitis.
Regular Dental Checkups: At least twice a year.
Proper Oral Hygiene: Brushing twice a day and flossing daily.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Avoiding tobacco and eating a balanced diet to boost overall immune function.
The primary cause is the buildup of bacterial plaque, but factors like poor oral hygiene, tobacco use, genetic susceptibility, medications, and chronic conditions can contribute.
Symptoms include red, swollen, or tender gums, bleeding while brushing or flossing, persistent bad breath or taste, receding gums, and loose teeth.
Treatment options include scaling and root planing, antibiotics, flap surgery, and grafts, depending on the stage of the disease.
Maria Tripi2024-05-12 I have been attending this practice for over 20 years with my family of 6. I have always found Dr Fiona and her staff to be very professional and caring. The cleanliness of this practice is pristine and you cannot fault them on their attention to detail. This is a very family orientated dental practice and all my children have grown up with Dr Fiona and her team and continue to attend. Highly recommended. Char Wilson2024-05-10 I have been seeing Fiona since I was a child and wouldn’t go anywhere else. Always clean, efficient and friendly! Alex dela Rosa2024-05-09 Dr. Fiona and the rest of her team have been very accommodating ever since I had my first emergency visit with them. They check up on me after every visit and also sends me reminders. Thank you, Dr. Fiona and team! Sven Meyer2024-04-19 I recently visited Dr. Fiona's practice for a dental check-up and cleaning as my usual practice had no open spots. I was impressed by the professionalism and cleanliness of the practice. Dr. Fiona, along with her team including Lisa the practice manager and Nicoly the dental assistant, were exceptionally warm and helpful. I wouldn't usually describe a dentist visit as "enjoyable," but they made it just that by alleviating any anxiety and ensuring the process was smooth from start to finish. Highly recommend! Rhian2024-04-19 Very friendly staff, helped with all my enquiries. Good overall service. Elizabeth Gilbert2024-04-13 An exceptionally good Practice. Everything about Family Dental Practice is outstanding. The Staff is professional and knowledgeable yet warm, friendly and caring. They take time to listen and take into account your whole medical history for better understanding to provide best care. Everything from the clean, waiting rooms, the up to date equipment, the follow up phone calls from receptionist makes it a very pleasant experience. Glenn McGrath2024-03-12 Experienced practitioner, providing high quality results over many years. Fiona and her team are friendly and focused on excellent patient care.Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 99 reviews
Untreated gum disease can lead to severe health issues beyond oral health, including increased risks of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Early intervention and regular dental visits are crucial for maintaining gum health and overall well-being. Book an appointment with us today.