Healthy Gums.
Stronger Foundations.

Periodontics is the branch of dentistry concerned with the health of the gums, supporting bone, and other tissues surrounding the teeth. Periodontists diagnose and treat gum disease and other conditions affecting these supporting structures.

Gum disease is an infection or inflammation affecting the tissues that support the teeth. It can range from early gum inflammation (gingivitis) to more advanced periodontal disease, which can result in bone loss and tooth mobility.

Common signs include bleeding gums, swollen or tender gums, persistent bad breath, gum recession, loose teeth, changes in the way teeth fit together, and sensitivity. Gum disease can sometimes progress with few noticeable symptoms.

Bleeding during brushing is commonly associated with plaque-induced gum inflammation. It should not be considered normal, particularly if it occurs regularly, and a dental examination can identify the underlying cause.

Yes. Advanced periodontal disease can damage the bone and tissues supporting the teeth, potentially resulting in tooth mobility and eventual tooth loss if left untreated.

Early gum inflammation, or gingivitis, can often be reversed with appropriate professional treatment and improved oral hygiene. Once significant supporting bone has been lost, it generally cannot simply be restored through routine cleaning, although treatment can help control the disease.

The primary cause is the accumulation of bacterial plaque along the gumline. Risk can also be influenced by factors such as smoking, diabetes, genetics, certain medications, poor oral hygiene, and other health conditions.

Plaque is a sticky bacterial film that forms on teeth. If not removed adequately, it can harden into tartar or calculus, which cannot be completely removed through regular brushing and generally requires professional cleaning.

Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical periodontal treatment that removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline and smooths affected root surfaces to help the gums heal and reattach where possible.

No. Professional cleaning is designed to remove plaque and calculus that cannot be effectively removed through routine brushing. Temporary sensitivity may occur in some patients, particularly where there is gum recession.

Persistent bad breath can be associated with gum disease, tongue coating, poor oral hygiene, dental decay, dry mouth, or other oral and medical conditions. Identifying the underlying cause is important for effective treatment.

Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue moves away from the tooth, exposing part of the tooth root. It can be associated with periodontal disease, aggressive brushing, tooth position, or other factors.

A gum graft is a periodontal procedure in which gum tissue is used to cover exposed tooth roots, increase gum tissue thickness, or improve the appearance of gum recession.

It depends on the cause and severity of tooth mobility. Treating the underlying periodontal disease may help stabilise some teeth, while severely compromised teeth may require additional treatment or replacement.

Yes. Patients with a history of periodontal disease may be at increased risk of inflammation and bone loss around implants. Good oral hygiene, appropriate treatment, and regular maintenance are important for long-term implant health.

Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the tissues around a dental implant and may be associated with bone loss around the implant. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are important.

Many periodontal conditions can initially be managed with professional cleaning, scaling and root planing, improved oral hygiene, and ongoing periodontal maintenance. Surgical treatment may be considered when deeper or persistent disease remains.

Periodontal surgery may be recommended when non-surgical treatment does not adequately control the disease or when there are specific defects requiring treatment. Procedures may include pocket reduction, regenerative procedures, bone grafting, or gum grafting.

Periodontal regenerative procedures aim to encourage the body's natural healing processes in areas where periodontal disease has caused certain types of bone or supporting tissue defects. Suitability depends on the individual defect and overall periodontal health.

Yes. Smoking can increase the risk of periodontal disease and can also impair healing and affect the response to periodontal treatment. Stopping smoking is beneficial for periodontal and overall health.

Yes. Children can develop gum inflammation, most commonly related to plaque accumulation. Certain medical conditions or other factors can increase the risk of more significant periodontal problems.

Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily, cleaning between your teeth, having regular dental examinations, and receiving professional cleaning when recommended. Avoiding tobacco and managing relevant health conditions can also help.

The appropriate frequency depends on your gum health and individual risk factors. Patients with active or previously treated periodontal disease may require more frequent periodontal maintenance visits.

The primary goals are to control infection and inflammation, preserve the teeth and supporting tissues, prevent further bone loss, and maintain healthy gums for the long term.