Preventative Dentistry

PATIENT’S GUIDE TO PERIODONTAL (GUM) DISEASE

The Patient’s Guide to Periodontal (Gum) Disease provides essential information on recognizing symptoms, understanding causes, and exploring treatment options. It highlights the importance of early detection to prevent tooth loss and protect overall health. This guide empowers patients to take control of their gum health through education and prevention.

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PATIENT’S GUIDE TO PERIODONTAL (GUM) DISEASE LEWISHAM

Periodontal (gum) disease is a common but serious condition that affects the tissues supporting your teeth. It often begins with mild symptoms like gum redness or bleeding and can progress to tooth loss if left untreated. This guide helps you recognize early warning signs and understand the stages of gum disease.
It also outlines available treatments—from non-surgical deep cleanings to advanced surgical options. Maintaining proper oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and lifestyle changes play a key role in managing the disease.
With the right care and information, gum disease is manageable and often preventable. Empower yourself with knowledge and take control of your oral health.

Benefits of Patients Guide To Periodontal ( Gum ) Disease

1

Early Detection Support

Helps patients recognize early signs of gum disease before it becomes severe.

2

Improved Treatment Understanding

Clearly explains available treatment options, reducing anxiety and uncertainty.

3

Enhanced Oral Health Awareness

Educates patients on daily habits and preventive care to maintain healthy gums.

4

Empowered Decision-Making

Encourages informed conversations with dental professionals for better outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Periodontal (gum) Disease?
  • Periodontal disease is a condition which effects the supporting structures of the teeth (gum and bone).
  • It happens when irreversible destruction has occurred to these structures (gum and bone), and if left untreated can eventually lead to tooth loss.
  • The main cause of periodontal disease is dental plaque, hence the importance of the removal of plaque through brushing twice a day and by carrying out interdental cleaning of the teeth.
  • Dental plaque is the sticky invisible film which grows on our teeth every day, which if left, turns into calculus/tartar (hardened plaque). The plaque contains bacteria that release harmful toxins, which can cause irreversible damage of the supporting structures.
  • When the damage occurs a ‘pocket’ is formed, due to the loss of supporting structures around the tooth. As the gum disease continues, so does bone loss. When sufficient bone has been lost the tooth loosens and either falls out or is removed.
  • Other factors which can cause periodontal disease include smoking, diabetes, medications (blood pressure medications), pregnancy and plaque retentive factors such as crowns/bridges which no longer fit.
  • Your Dentist/Dental Hygienist will check the gum health by dividing your mouth into 6 areas, and gives each area a score between of 0-4.

 

SCOREWhat does this mean?Treatment required
0No bleeding

 

No plaque or calculus/tartar

No pocket

No treatment needed
1Bleeding

 

Plaque

No pocket

Oral hygiene advice
2Bleeding

 

Plaque and calculus/tartar

No pocket

Oral hygiene advice

 

Referral to hygienist for scaling

3Bleeding

 

Plaque and calculus/tartar

Plaque retentive factor

Pocket measured between 3.5-5.5mm

Oral hygiene advice

 

Referral to hygienist for periodontal treatment

4Bleeding

 

Plaque and calculus/tartar

Plaque retentive factor

Pocket more than 5.5mm

The aim of the treatment discussed below is to stabilise and prevent any further progression of the periodontal disease.

Any current damage of supporting structures of teeth cannot be regrown.

Plaque is the main cause of periodontal disease, hence the importance of its removal through excellent brushing technique and interdental cleaning technique of the patient.

Please see below the treatment plan:

Session 1(£95- 30 min appointment):

Removal of plaque and calculus

Intense oral hygiene advice – brushing technique and interdental cleaning tips

Session 2 (£95- 30 min appointment):

Full mouth recording of pockets – this will act as a baseline for ongoing treatment and allows the hygienist to compare results at the end of treatment

Any further oral hygiene advice required

Session 3 (£190- 1 hour appointment):

For patients with scores of 3 – Whole mouth deeper cleaning underneath the gums using ultrasonic scaler and hand instruments

For patients with scores of 4 – 1st half mouth deeper cleaning with local anaesthetic underneath the gums using ultrasonic scaler and hand instruments

Session 4 (£190-1 hour appointment):

underneath gums using ultrasonic scaler and hand instruments

Session 5 (£95-30 min appointment):

3 months after deeper cleaning carried out

Full mouth reassessment of pockets

If treatment has been successful, the patient will be placed onto the maintenance phase – hygienist appointments every 3 months and full mouth pocket recordings once per year

If little or no response to treatment, referral to a specialist will be discussed

Possible treatment side effects:

  • Gum recession
  • Sensitivity
  • Infection

Ready to take the first step?

Treatment Required

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