Periodontal Disease

What is Periodontal Disease?
In basic terms, periodontal disease is a bacterial induced disease that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth.  If left untreated, the damaged tissue leads to a gap between the tooth and gum which can lead to further problems, giving harmful bacteria the ideal place to thrive.  An important thing to note about periodontal disease is that symptoms don’t often present themselves until it’s too late.  Left undetected and untreated, it can lead to premature tooth loss due to bone loss.

What are the risks?

Periodontal disease is the largest cause of tooth loss in the western world, yet most sufferers are unaware they have the condition. What’s more, tooth loss isn’t the only danger posed by the disease. Recent medical research has suggested there may be a positive link between periodontal disease and the risk of other conditions such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes, and bacterial pneumonia. In fact, up-to-date research has even suggest links to erectile dysfunction and certain types of cancer.

Given that periodontal disease can appear symptomless until it is too late, it’s essential to get regular check ups at your dentist or hygienist. As part of any check-up, you’ll receive a periodontal examination which will use a probe to determine whether any ‘gap’ between your gums and teeth have developed. If so, you’ll likely receive a dental X-ray to measure the extent of the problem and you may be referred to a periodontist – a dentist who specialises in gum health.

Treating Periodontal Disease

With more and more research highlighting the link between periodontal disease and other systemic diseases, gum health has never been more important. All of our periodontal care is overseen after by our Director of Specialist Services, Dominic Hassall. Dominic is a General Dental Council (GDC) registered specialist in Periodontology, and is supported by a well trained team of dental hygienist experts.

To find out more about periodontal treatment in Solihull Birmingham, or to speak with someone about booking an appointment, call us today.