Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Periodontal Treatment

Gum disease often develops gradually, and early symptoms can be easy to overlook. Common warning signs include:

• Red, swollen or bleeding gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Gum recession
• Loose teeth 

You might also notice tenderness or discomfort when chewing, or gums that feel sensitive or pull away from your teeth. If any of these symptoms appear, it’s important to schedule a dental evaluation to address any disease in its earlier stages.

During your appointment, your dentist will examine your gums for inflammation, measure the depth of gum pockets around each tooth and check for bone loss or other signs of periodontal disease. Based on this assessment, your dentist will recommend a tailored treatment plan, which could include scaling and deep cleaning beneath the gums while numbed, or more advanced therapies if necessary. Professional intervention is key to preventing the progression of gum disease and helps maintain long-term oral health.

Maintaining Healthy Gums at Home

Maintaining your gums between dental visits is essential:

• Daily brushing and flossing remove plaque and bacteria that can irritate the gums.
• Using an antiseptic or fluoride mouthwash can further reduce harmful bacteria and freshen breath.
• Avoiding smoking or vaping, eating a balanced diet and managing stress also support gum health.
• Regular dental cleanings and check-ups, combined with good at-home care, are the most effective ways to prevent gum disease and protect your smile for years to come.

Have questions or need to book your visit? We welcome your call. 

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.