Gum health plays a crucial role in your overall well-being and oral hygiene. At Eaglehawk Dental, we understand how essential it is to maintain healthy gums, which is why we offer expert-led periodontal therapy designed to prevent, manage, and treat gum disease at every stage.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about periodontal disease, its causes, symptoms, and how periodontal therapy can help restore your smile.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, commonly referred to as gum disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the soft tissue and bone supporting your teeth. It begins with plaque buildup, which if not removed, can harden into tartar and cause inflammation of the gums (gingivitis). When left untreated, gingivitis progresses into periodontitis—a more severe form of gum disease that can result in tooth loss and other serious health issues.
Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease
Early detection of gum disease is crucial to preventing permanent damage. Common symptoms include:
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Red, swollen, or tender gums
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Bleeding while brushing or flossing
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Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
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Receding gums
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Loose or shifting teeth
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Pus between the teeth and gums
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Pain while chewing
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it's time to schedule an appointment with your local dental clinic for an evaluation and possible periodontal therapy.
What is Periodontal Therapy?
Periodontal therapy is a specialized dental treatment aimed at managing and reversing the effects of periodontal disease. It involves both non-surgical and surgical methods depending on the severity of the condition. At Eaglehawk Dental, we tailor your periodontal treatment plan to suit your specific needs, ensuring effective and lasting results.
1. Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy
This is the first line of defense against gum disease and typically involves:
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Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning): This technique removes plaque and tartar from beneath the gumline and smoothens the root surfaces to encourage gum reattachment and healing.
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Antibiotic Therapy: In some cases, localized antibiotics may be used to eliminate bacteria and reduce inflammation.
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Laser Therapy: Minimally invasive lasers may be employed to disinfect gum pockets and stimulate tissue regeneration.
2. Surgical Periodontal Therapy
If the disease has progressed beyond the reach of non-surgical methods, surgical procedures may be required:
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Flap Surgery: The gums are lifted to remove deep tartar and then sutured back in place to fit snugly around the teeth.
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Bone Grafting: Used when the bone supporting your teeth has been destroyed, this procedure helps regenerate lost bone using natural or synthetic materials.
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Soft Tissue Grafting: This is done to reinforce thin gums or fill areas where the gums have receded.
Benefits of Periodontal Therapy
Choosing timely periodontal therapy can lead to numerous health and aesthetic benefits:
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Prevents Tooth Loss: Healthy gums are essential to keeping your teeth in place.
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Eliminates Chronic Bad Breath: Treating infection and removing bacteria drastically reduces halitosis.
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Improves Aesthetic Appearance: Receded gums and inflamed tissue can make your smile less appealing; therapy restores its natural look.
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Supports Overall Health: Periodontal health is closely linked to systemic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory illness.
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Enhances Confidence: A healthy mouth improves self-esteem and promotes better social interactions.
Why Choose Eaglehawk Dental for Periodontal Therapy?
Located in the heart of Eaglehawk VIC, our dental clinic combines years of clinical expertise with the latest in dental technology to deliver personalized periodontal care. Here’s why our patients trust us:
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Comprehensive Diagnostics: We use advanced imaging and probing techniques to detect gum disease at its earliest stages.
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Experienced Team: Our dentists and hygienists are trained in the latest periodontal treatment protocols.
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Patient Education: We prioritize helping our patients understand their condition and treatment options.
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Comfort-Focused Care: We provide gentle, compassionate care in a relaxed, friendly environment.
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Flexible Appointments: Booking is easy, and we accommodate your schedule with evening and weekend appointments.
What to Expect During Your Visit
When you visit Eaglehawk Dental for periodontal therapy, the process is thorough and customized:
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Initial Consultation and Assessment: A full examination of your gums, including X-rays if needed.
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Diagnosis: Identification of disease severity using pocket depth measurements.
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Treatment Plan: Discussion of available treatment options based on your oral health condition.
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Treatment: Non-surgical or surgical therapy as required.
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Follow-Up: Regular maintenance cleanings and monitoring of your periodontal health.
How to Prevent Gum Disease
Even after successful periodontal therapy, ongoing maintenance is key to preventing recurrence. Follow these simple tips to keep your gums healthy:
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Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
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Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth.
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Use an antibacterial mouthwash.
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Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
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Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
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Schedule routine dental cleanings and exams every six months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is periodontal therapy painful?
Most patients report only minor discomfort during non-surgical procedures like scaling and root planing. For surgical procedures, local anesthesia and sedation options are available to ensure comfort.
How long does the treatment take?
The duration depends on the severity of the disease. Non-surgical therapy may take one or two visits, while surgical treatment might involve multiple appointments.
Can gum disease come back after treatment?
Yes, if not properly maintained. Regular oral hygiene and follow-up care are essential to long-term success.
Is periodontal therapy covered by insurance?
Many private health insurance plans cover some or all costs of periodontal treatment. We recommend checking with your provider for specific coverage details.
Book Your Appointment Today
Don’t let gum disease compromise your smile or health. Whether you’re dealing with early signs of gingivitis or advanced periodontitis, Eaglehawk Dental is here to help. Our experienced team offers trusted periodontal therapy to restore your gums and protect your teeth for years to come.
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