Gum Treatments (From £140.00)
Good overall dental health involves good gum tissue condition, as the gums provide structural support for the teeth. Gum problems can lead to more serious dental conditions, and can even result to the loss of teeth.
Gum treatments by the dentist at Woodbury Dental and Laser Clinic can ensure that the gums are well taken care of so that they are as far away as possible from gum problems; proper gum health care will also make it possible for the early signs of gum problems to be detected, so they will not have a chance of developing into something more serious.
Types of Gum Diseases
Gingivitis – This is the mildest form of gum disease that is characterised by gums that are red, swollen, and bleed easily with the slightest pressure. Gingivitis is caused by poor oral hygiene, and can easily be treated with gum treatments by the dentist at Woodbury Dental and Laser Clinic , and with proper dental hygiene habits.
Periodontitis – This is often the result of gingivitis that has been left untreated, when plaque has already spread to the area below the gum line. The toxins that are produced by bacteria may damage the tissue underneath the gum line, and can even cause damage to the structures that support the teeth. Periodontitis causes deep pockets to form in between the teeth and the gums; if left untreated, periodontitis can lead to tooth loss.
Gum Treatments
Scaling and Root Planing – Deep cleaning treatments, such as scaling and root planing, are necessary to remove the buildup of plaque and bacteria under the gum line. Root planing is done by the dentist at Woodbury Dental and Laser Clinic to remove the rough spots (caused by bacteria) that may have developed on the root of the tooth. Scaling is done to effectively remove the tartar buildup on the gums and below the gum line to ensure that bacteria is removed – and further infection is prevented from happening.
Medications – Deep cleaning treatments such as scaling and root planing are often combined with medications, to achieve effective gum treatment. Medications that are used by the dentist at Woodbury Dental and Laser Clinic in the treatment of gum diseases may include: oral antibiotics, antibiotic gel, antibiotic chip, enzyme suppressants, and antimicrobial mouth rinse. The medications used for gum disease treatment are prescribed by the dentist at Woodbury Dental and Laser Clinic, and should not be used without the proper prescription and guidance from a dental professional as they may have serious side effects on the body.
Surgery – Surgical treatments may be necessary in cases when gum disease cannot be treated successfully by medications or deep cleaning treatments (root planing and scaling). The dentist at Woodbury Dental and Laser Clinic or peridontist may suggest a flap surgery that will lift the gum tissue, so that tartar deposits under the gum line can effectively be removed. In cases when gum and jaw bone tissue have been damaged by gum disease, tissue grafting (for either the gums or the bones, or both) may be necessary to repair the form and function of gums.
Prevention of Gum Disease
Brush your teeth thoroughly and on a regular basis. Tooth brushing removes food particles that may have been left on the teeth surfaces and along the gum line; if not removed, these food bits can lead to the formation of plaque. Proper tooth brushing also massages the gums, so good blood circulation is maintained – and gums stay healthy and well taken care of.
Make it a habit to use dental floss. There may be food bits that tooth brushing alone will not be able to remove from between teeth and along the gum line and these food bits can lead to plaque buildup. The food bits that are left between teeth and along the gum line can also interact with bacteria; the infection may spread to under the gum line and cause serious dental problems. Dental floss should be used in a firm but gentle manner, to ensure that the sensitive tissues of the gums are not damaged or injured in any way.
The use of an antibacterial mouthwash will also go a long way in making sure that the gums (and other surfaces inside the oral cavity) are kept clean and far from bacterial infections. An antibacterial mouthwash will also be beneficial in keeping the breath smelling fresh.
Go for regular dental checkups with your the dentist at Woodbury Dental and Laser Clinic. Regular dental checkups will enable the dentist to check on the status of your dental and gum health, and provide the proper treatments for any existing gum diseases. Early detection of gum problems are made easier as well with regular dental checkups, and will help the dentist in giving you preventative treatments or tips to avoid the full blown development of gum disease.