The most common form of periodontal disease is a result of inflammation of the gums. It is called gingivitis.
Gingivitis and Periodontitis
Gingivitis, if left untreated, may progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis is a serious condition which involves the inflammation of the supporting structures of the tooth, that is, the ligaments and bone.
Effects of Periodontal Disease Gum Disease)
Periodontal disease is progressive, accumulative and irreversible.
Even if it doesn't hurt, untreated gum disease will eventually result in tooth loss.
Periodontal Disease and other Illnesses
Recent studies have shown there is a very strong correlation between the presence of periodontal disease and heart disease, diabetes and other systemic illnesses.
Periodontal disease can go on for years without pain and without detection, unless specific examination procedures are performed.
Early detection and adequate diagnosis requires measurement of pockets (the crevice between the tooth and gum) with a periodontal probe.
Prevention of Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease and tooth decay is best prevented by regular visits to your dental hygienist, together with impeccable oral hygiene.
Early detection and treatment is critical to prevent tooth loss.
Although the treatment procedure is simple, painless and requires only a few minutes, millions of Australians have never had it done.
Don't Delay Treatment.
Effective prevention and treatment is available, but the damage caused as the disease progresses is irreversible.
At Geelong Smile Studio we are committed to providing the very best of dental health care (including periodontal care) for all of our patients. This commitment has seen us develop a first class Dental Hygiene Program.
We strongly believe that the foundation of optimal oral health is optimal health of your gums. This is why all our patients have comprehensive continuing care appointments with a Dental Hygienist.
Trained in the Prevention and Treatment of Gum Diseases
More about Periodontal (Gum) Disease and Gum Treatment
The main cause of periodontal disease is plaque, but other factors include smoking, genetics, puberty, pregnancy, menopause, stress, medications, clenching/grinding teeth, diabetes, poor nutrition, obesity and other systemic diseases.
Some signs of periodontal disease may include:
- Bleeding gums,
- Redness of gum tissue,
- Swelling of gums around the teeth,
- Breath odour,
- Receding gums, and
- Increased mobility of teeth
Sometimes gum tissue can be uneven, and this can give the appearance of exceptionally large or small teeth. A common type of gum treatment is a gum lift. Geelong cosmetics dentists, Dr. Jason Gray and Dr. Alison Robinson, can correct the contours of your gums to give you a more proportionate, balanced look and healthy smile.
Gum contouring is a common and painless procedure which heals fast.
Dr. Gray or Dr. Robinson will use a diode laser to gently sculpt the gums, removing superfluous gum tissue. This has the effect of creating a whole new smile, one which is whiter, more even and more beautiful.
The amount of sculpting that is possible depends on how much gum tissue we are able to remove in order to preserve the "biologic width" (this is the amount of gum area needed to hold teeth together architecturally). If laser treatment is insufficient to produce desired results, other treatment options are available in order to reduce the appearance of a gummy smile. The gum lift procedure is designed to ensure symmetry.
To schedule your consultation for gum contouring in Geelong, contact our office immediately to discuss your needs.
Our studio is committed to the highest standard of care for our patients, which is why we developed our first class Dental Hygiene Programme.
We believe the essence of oral health is healthy gums, which is why all our patients have a plan of continuous care involving our dental hygienist.
We have access to the latest technology for gum treatments in Geelong. Procedures that used to require local anaesthesia and scalpel treatment now can be carried out with our cosmetic laser. This means no stitches, shorter appointments, and quicker healing (5-6 times faster than regular treatments).
The best advantage is that this treatment will cost you about half the price of conventional surgery.