Bleeding Gums and Periodontal Treatments in Winston Hills, NSW
Chronic or widespread bleeding in the gums indicates the presence of irritation and the symptoms of infection.
This typically occurs when inadequate brushing and flossing techniques allow the white, sticky film called plaque to collect on the teeth near the gumline. When left too long, plaque hardens into tartar. If tartar develops, brushing and flossing will not be enough to remove it, but a professional dental cleaning can.
Sticky plaque provides an optimum environment for bacteria to reproduce. When left untreated, periodontal disease can develop.
When treated in its early stages, bleeding gums or gingivitis can be reversible with improved home care and one ore more (depending on individual needs and progression) professional dental cleanings designed to remove tartar and promote healing.
Periodontal Disease and Treatment
When left untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontitis – an infection in the gum tissue and bone. Due to inflammation and bacteria, pockets can form between the teeth and gums, making it possible for bacteria to continue to damage delicate gum tissue.
Symptoms of Periodontitis
To accurately diagnose periodontal disease, Dr Lavery will evaluate your oral health and symptoms, which may include:
- Foul-smelling breath
- Inflammation and redness of the gums
- Pus near the gumline
- Tooth mobility
- Tooth loss
- Pain and sensitivity
- Gum recession
Any inflammatory disease puts your health at risk. Recent research links periodontal disease to many systemic conditions including:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Certain types of cancer
- Low birth weight in babies born to pregnant women who have periodontal disease
Medical conditions can also increase your risk of developing periodontal disease. For example, hormone fluctuations, such as those during pregnancy, and dry mouth can make it more challenging to keep gums healthy. Dr Lavery believes that when we work together, excellent oral health is possible.
Treatment for Periodontal Disease
While advanced periodontal disease is not curable, it can be managed with the proper care. After a complete evaluation, Dr Lavery will organise a personal treatment plan to help you keep infection at bay.
Typically, treatment will begin with a deep cleaning to remove tartar and bacteria just beneath the gumline. In some instances, a local antibiotic agent will be applied within the pockets to encourage healthy tissue.
After the initial deep cleaning, follow-up visits will allow Dr Lavery to monitor healing and provide oral therapy designed to help healthy gum tissue regenerate.
In some cases, bone loss occurs, and extractions become necessary. If you wish to complete your smile with dental implants, bone grafting may be necessary but cannot be achieved until the infection is under control.
Do You Have Bleeding Gums?
Our entire team at Martina Lavery Dental & Skin Studio will help you improve your oral health without guilt or judgment. Our Hills District dental clinic makes it convenient to get the dentistry you need to stay healthy with convenient bookings. We also service Northmead, Baulkham Hills, and Bella Vista areas. So please feel free to contact us.