Periodontitis, also known as gum disease, is an incredibly common ailment that affects millions of people across the globe.
It has even been associated with some rather serious health problems. Data has shown that it can heighten an individual’s risk for a variety of conditions, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s. There are even studies that suggest that gum disease may be linked to negative impacts on pregnancy.
However, this widespread issue affects more than you’d think right at home here in Australia: according to the National Study of Adult Oral Health, at least 30% of the Australian population has at least moderate cases of periodontitis, and it’s most common among seniors, especially those aged 75 and older.
However, it doesn’t have to be that way. Periodontitis is both preventable and treatable, just as long as you focus on your oral health and see your dentist as soon as you start seeing early symptoms. We’ll talk more about treatment options, but first, let’s look at some of the causes of gum disease.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis, is a progressive condition often caused by plaque build-up, which is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar, further exacerbating gum inflammation, leading to infection, and potentially impacting the teeth and jawbone if left untreated.
Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease
Be vigilant for red, swollen gums, bleeding during brushing, persistent bad breath, and loose teeth. Full symptoms can include:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
- Receding gums, making the teeth appear longer than normal
- Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in the way teeth fit together when biting down
- Pus visible at the gum line, indicating an infection
- Painful chewing
- Sensitive teeth, as a result of exposed tooth roots
- Noticeable change in the fit of partial dentures
These symptoms warrant a professional assessment from Today’s Dental.
The Importance of Treating Gum Disease
Ignoring gum disease can lead to tooth loss and has been linked to broader health issues like heart disease and diabetes. Early intervention is key to preventing serious consequences.
Professional Treatments for Gum Disease
We offer a suite of treatments ranging from non-surgical options like scaling and root planing to surgical interventions for advanced cases, ensuring comprehensive care for all stages of gum disease.
Scaling and Root Planing
This non-surgical treatment involves deep cleaning below the gum line to remove plaque and tartar, helping to halt the progression of gum disease and promote healing of gum tissue.
By meticulously cleaning below the gum line, it eliminates the bacterial deposits that cause gum inflammation and infection. The removal of these irritants allows the gums to heal and reattach to the teeth properly, reducing gum pocket depths, and halting the progression of the disease. The smoothing out of the root surfaces during planing also discourages further plaque accumulation, fostering a healthy environment for gum tissue regeneration.
Advanced Gum Disease Treatments
For severe cases, Today’s Dental provides advanced treatments such as flap surgery, laser therapy, and regenerative procedures to restore gum health and function.
Flap Surgery: A precise surgical technique where the gums are lifted back to allow deep cleaning around the roots and repair of bone damage caused by gum disease.
Laser Therapy: Utilizes specialized dental lasers to target and remove inflamed gum tissue and bacteria, promoting faster healing and less discomfort compared to traditional surgery.
Regenerative Procedures: Techniques that aim to regenerate lost bone and tissue support, often involving bone grafts, tissue-stimulating proteins, or membranes to encourage the body’s natural ability to regenerate bone and gum tissue.
Preventing Gum Disease
Prevention is better than cure—maintain regular dental check-ups, practice diligent oral hygiene, and consider lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of gum disease.
Post-treatment, we focus on ongoing gum health management through regular follow-ups, personalized cleaning routines, and education on signs of recurrence.
Cost of Treatment for Gum Disease
Costs vary based on the treatment required, from basic cleaning to advanced surgical procedures. During your consultation, we’ll discuss the expected costs and tailor a plan to your needs.
| Treatment Option | Typical Cost Range (AUD) |
| Initial Consultation & Diagnosis | $50 – $200 |
| Scaling and Root Planing | $200 – $400 per quadrant |
| Flap Surgery | $1,000 – $3,000 per quadrant |
| Laser Therapy | $300 – $600 per session |
| Regenerative Procedures | $500 – $2,500 per site |
| Periodontal Maintenance | $150 – $350 per visit |
Dental Insurance and Payment Options
Many dental insurance plans cover treatments for gum disease. At Today’s Dental, we also provide various payment options to ensure our services are accessible to those in need.
About Dr. Kenneth Lee
Dr. Kenneth Lee’s extensive experience in treating gum disease, combined with a dedication to patient-centred care, ensures the highest quality of treatment and support for our patients.
FAQs
- How can I tell if I have gum disease?
Look for signs such as swollen, red, or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, and receding gums. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a dentist for a definitive diagnosis. - Can gum disease be cured or only managed?
Early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) can often be cured with thorough cleaning and improved oral hygiene. Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) is typically managed with ongoing treatments to maintain the condition and prevent further deterioration. - What are the benefits of treating gum disease early?
Early treatment of gum disease can prevent more serious health problems such as tooth loss, bone damage, and has been linked to reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases. It also limits the need for more extensive and costly dental procedures in the future.
Early treatment of gum disease can lead to the best outcomes. Trust Today’s Dental and Dr. Kenneth Lee for comprehensive care that addresses the root of the problem.
Concerned about gum health? Book a consultation with Today’s Dental for a thorough gum health assessment and a personalized treatment plan.