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Periodontitis
Understanding Periodontitis
What is Periodontitis/ gum disease?
Periodontitis is a severe chronic gum infection that damages the tissue and bone supporting the teeth.
Risks of Untreated Gum Disease
If untreated, periodontitis can destroy bone, leading to loose teeth or tooth loss.
Prevention and Care
Early intervention, oral hygiene maintenance, and professional dental care can help prevent the progression of periodontitis and its associated tooth loss.
As a qualified periodontist, Dr Lucy Masuka Kironji has specialised training in managing periodontitis
Signs of Healthy and Unhealthy Gums
Characteristics of Healthy Gums
Healthy gums are firm, fit snugly around the teeth, and range from light pink to dark brown in colour.
Signs of Unhealthy Gums
Unhealthy gums may be swollen, red or purple, and bleed easily when brushing or flossing.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Gum disease symptoms include bad breath, gum recession, loose teeth, pain when chewing, and the development of gaps between teeth.
Treating Periodontitis: Key Steps
Non-surgical Initial Treatment
Root surface instrumentation removes bacterial biofilm below the gum line and is the first line of therapy for periodontitis.
Surgical Intervention Options
If the disease persists, surgical approaches like open flap debridement and osseous surgery are considered to halt disease progression.
Regenerative Procedures
In cases of bone and tissue loss, guided tissue regeneration and bone grafting are used to encourage bone and tissue regrowth to repair periodontal structures.
Periodontal Maintenance Essentials
Importance of Maintenance
Ongoing periodontal maintenance after treatment is essential to prevent the recurrence of harmful microorganisms and maintain oral health.
Regular Checkups and Cleanings
Scheduling professional checkups and thorough cleanings every three months helps ensure effective control and prevention of the recurrence and progression of periodontal disease.
Monitoring and Early Intervention
Consistent maintenance enables close monitoring of previously affected teeth and allows for early intervention if periodontitis returns.
Previous Treated Cases
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