What is gum disease?

Gum disease is also known as periodontal disease. It is an inflammatory disease and occurs in response to a build-up of plaque on the teeth. The gum tissues can become swollen and loose around the teeth. This creates pockets around the teeth that harbour harmful bacteria that cause further gum and bone loss. These pockets can be reduced to improve gum health and slow down the progression of gum disease.

Essentially gum disease causes accelerated bone and gum recession that if left uncontrolled and untreated can cause the teeth to become loose and in severe cases can result in the early loss of teeth. Approximately 10% of the population are affected by severe periodontal disease and by the age of 60 around 80% of people will have experienced some bone loss.

It is understood that there is a genetic link with a family disposition to the disease in some instances. The single biggest risk factor after poor oral hygiene is smoking. Stopping smoking is a very important part of controlling and preventing tooth loss. Medical conditions such as poorly controlled diabetes, poor diet and stress are also factors in the development of the disease.

Is it a treatable condition?

It can be treated successfully but a lot depends on the severity of the condition when it is diagnosed. There is no cure but, by stabilising the disease, it is possible to prevent further damage and help to minimise the risk of tooth loss. If you are struggling with gum disease, especially if it is advanced, then you will benefit from the extra support and expert treatment from Priya Bahal our dentist with a special interest in periodontology and gum disease management.

As well as carrying out expert gum disease assessments, Priya can also carry out advanced gum treatments such as and surgical gum disease procedures to clean deep below the gum line, gum recontouring to make it easier to clean the teeth, cosmetic gum lift surgery and gum grafts to correct and treat gum recession.

As well as being an invaluable member The Queens Dental team, Priya is also in the second year of an intensive postgraduate training programme to become a specialist in Periodontology and dental implants at Guy’s Hospital in central London. In that role she treats patients with advanced gum disease and, in conjunction with King’s College London, is carrying out a research PhD on the treatment of molars (back teeth) that suffer from advanced gum disease.

What steps can I take to help?

Your part in how the disease is managed and stabilised is crucial. You will be shown techniques that will help you clean your teeth to a very high standard. This will prevent plaque build-up and keep bacteria at a level below that which triggers inflammation. The success of your treatment will depend on your ability and motivation to maintain the highest of standards of daily brushing and interdental cleaning at home.

What treatments are available?

Treatment for minor to moderate gum disease begins with non-surgical procedures such as scaling and deep cleaning the surface of the teeth and roots below the gum line. When you are able to successfully control the build-up of plaque, we will remove the plaque and tartar deposits that are attached to your teeth that you are not able to remove yourself. It may require several treatment sessions over a period of months depending on how long it takes to stabilise the condition. Your hard work at home will help to reach that point sooner.

What can I expect after treatment?

You may experience some gum recession after the initial healing has taken place. Another side-effect of any treatment could be sensitivity to hot and cold food, but this should soon settle down after 2-3 weeks. It is very rare to have persistent sensitivity.

There may be some discomfort or tenderness in the gums in the week after treatment. This can be managed with over the counter painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. Initially, after the treatment, the teeth may feel slightly looser, but they will firm up as the gums heal and the gum disease stabilises.