FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS GUM DISEASE?
Gum disease or periodontitis is a common inflammatory disease of the supporting tissues of the teeth. It is caused by the build-up of a soft film of bacteria and other tiny particles called plaque, on the surface of the teeth.
The earliest form of gum disease is gingivitis or red, bleeding gums.
The disease may progress to periodontitis wherein the gums pull away from the teeth to form little pockets of bacteria-laden plaque, which causes infection in the underlying tissues and bone.
If left untreated, it can lead to pus, infections and premature tooth loss.
WHAT CAN I DO TO PREVENT GUM DISEASE?
Keeping your teeth clean is the best way to prevent periodontal problems. In addition to the mandatory brushing 2 times a day, you must floss in between teeth at least once a day. You might also need to use other cleansing aids like interdental brushes, rubber tips, irrigator devices, or brushes to clean underneath dental bridges or implants. Visiting your dentist every 6 months helps prevent and treat early signs of disease.
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF PERIODONTITIS?
The common signs of periodontitis are:
swollen and bleeding gums
foul breath
receding gums that make your teeth look longer
foul taste in the mouth
shifting teeth or increasing gaps between your teeth
pus in the gums
loose teeth
IS PERIODONTAL DISEASE LINKED TO ANY OTHER SYSTEMIC DISEASES?
Scientific research has proven periodontal disease to have indisputable links with the following systemic diseases:
Diabetes
Heart disease
Complications in pregnancy
Respiratory diseases
WHAT IS THE TREATMENT FOR PERIODONTITIS?
There are several treatment options for periodontitis, depending on the present condition of your tissues. Non-surgical procedures include deep scaling, root planing, and laser treatment. Surgical treatment is needed in more advanced cases and includes pocket reduction surgery and regenerative procedures.
DOES PERIODONTAL SURGERY CURE GUM DISEASE ONCE AND FOR ALL?
After periodontal surgery, you need periodic follow-up, monitoring and tailoring the treatment according to the progression/ regression of your disease. This is because there are several factors that affect the status of the disease. These include genetics, smoking, diabetes, pregnancy, etc. We will advise you regarding your follow-up intervals.