Periodontitis is the clinical term for what is commonly known as gum disease. It is a chronic, lifelong inflammatory condition that results in the progressive loss of the bone and gum tissues that support your teeth. If not managed effectively, periodontitis is a leading cause of tooth loss in Australian adults.
At Providence Dental Care in West Lakes, our goal is to help patients manage this condition through professional clinical intervention and tailored home-care routines.
Factors that influence gum health
While plaque and tartar buildup are the primary causes, periodontitis is significantly influenced by:
- Lifestyle factors: Such as smoking or tobacco use.
- Systemic health: Conditions like diabetes can worsen the body's inflammatory response.
- Genetics: Some individuals have a higher genetic predisposition to gum disease.
How is periodontitis managed?
The progression of gum disease can often be slowed or arrested through periodontal (deep) cleaning, also known as root planing. This treatment is more intensive than a standard scale and clean, focusing on removing bacteria from deep periodontal pockets.
For our patients in West Lakes and the Western Suburbs, we combine these clinical treatments with a plan to address the lifestyle and systemic health factors that may be contributing to the disease.
Who is at risk?
Periodontitis is very common across the Australian population. Early diagnosis at our Charles Street clinic is essential for maintaining your natural teeth. As with any clinical procedure, individual results will vary, and a thorough assessment is required to determine the best course of action for your specific needs.