Gum Care
Gum Care
Maintaining healthy gums is a crucial aspect of oral health, as gum disease can lead to serious dental and medical complications if left untreated. At Ipswich Dental Specialists, we offer comprehensive gum care services to help you maintain strong, healthy gums and prevent the progression of gum disease.
Understanding Gum Disease
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It is typically caused by the build-up of plaque — a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. There are two main stages of gum disease:
- Gingivitis: The early stage of gum disease, characterised by redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good oral hygiene.
- Periodontitis: The advanced stage, where the gums pull away from the teeth, creating pockets that become infected. This can lead to bone and tooth loss if not treated promptly.
Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
- Receding gums or teeth that appear longer
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pain or discomfort while chewing
The Importance of Regular Gum Care
Maintaining healthy gums is essential for overall dental health and well-being. Regular check-ups and cleanings with our hygienists and specialists can help:
- Prevent Gum Disease: Early detection and treatment of gingivitis can prevent the progression to periodontitis.
- Maintain Fresh Breath: Effective gum care reduces bacteria build-up, which is often the cause of bad breath.
- Protect Your Teeth: Healthy gums help to keep your teeth in place, reducing the risk of tooth loss due to gum disease.
- Support Overall Health: Gum disease has been linked to systemic health issues, such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory problems. Maintaining healthy gums can reduce the risk of these conditions.
Specialist Periodontal Care by Alex Biller
At Ipswich Dental Specialists, we are proud to have Alex Biller, a highly qualified and experienced Specialist Periodontist, on our team.
About Dr. Alex Biller
- Qualifications and Experience: Alex graduated in dental surgery from King’s College Dental Institute, University of London, in 2011. He later specialised in Periodontics, completing his Master’s of Clinical Dentistry in Periodontology at King’s College London in 2017.
- Specialist Focus: Since 2014, Alex has focused on the treatment of periodontal disease and dental implants. He is experienced in managing complex periodontal issues, peri-implantitis (infections around dental implants), and performing bone grafting procedures.
- Approach to Care: Alex is dedicated to helping his patients achieve optimal gum health. He takes a patient-centred approach, offering compassionate care, especially for those who may feel anxious or nervous about treatment.
Our Gum Care Services
1. Professional Cleanings
Regular professional cleanings, known as scaling and polishing, help remove plaque and tartar build-up that daily brushing and flossing cannot reach. Our hygienists use specialised tools to clean above and below the gum line, promoting healthy gums.
2. Deep Cleaning (Root Planing and Scaling)
For patients with signs of gum disease, a more intensive cleaning may be needed. This involves removing plaque and tartar from the tooth roots, smoothing the surfaces to prevent bacteria from reattaching, and promoting healing of the gum tissue.
3. Gum Surgery
In cases of advanced gum disease, surgical intervention may be necessary. This can include flap surgery to clean the roots of the teeth and repair the bone, or grafting procedures to restore lost gum or bone tissue.
4. Periodontal Maintenance
For patients with a history of gum disease, regular periodontal maintenance is essential. This involves ongoing care and monitoring to prevent the recurrence of gum disease and maintain oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Care
We recommend regular check-ups every six months. However, if you have a history of gum disease, more frequent visits may be necessary as advised by your dentist or periodontist.
Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, is reversible with professional treatment and improved oral hygiene practices. However, periodontitis, the advanced stage, can only be managed and controlled, not reversed.
Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Avoid smoking, eat a balanced diet, and manage conditions like diabetes that can increase the risk of gum disease.
We prioritise patient comfort and use local anaesthesia or sedation techniques to minimise discomfort during gum treatments. Most patients experience little to no pain during and after treatment.
If you have symptoms like persistent bad breath, bleeding gums, receding gums, or loose teeth, it may be time to see a specialist periodontist for a thorough evaluation and personalised treatment plan.
Trust Ipswich Dental Specialists for Your Gum Health
Your gum health is vital to your overall dental well-being. Whether you need routine care or specialised treatment, our team, led by Alex Biller, is here to help you maintain a healthy, confident smile. Contact us today to book your consultation and take the first step towards better gum health.
