Periodontics is the specialty of dentistry dealing with gums and gum diseases.

Gum disease is the most common infection throughout the world. Some gingival inflammation is present in most individuals although we are usually unaware there are problems until the infection is fairly advanced. Things to look out for are bleeding gums, sensitive gums, bad breath, and receding gums as these are the earlier signs of gum disease. As the disease progresses there is loss of bone supporting the teeth so that the teeth become loose.

There are many types of gum disease, and contrary to popular belief, they affect young as well as older people. Heredity does play a part in gum disease so if members of your family have gum disease then you may also be susceptible and a thorough examination is advisable.

Lifestyle does impact how severely you can be affected by gum disease. So a good nutritious diet, and particularly vitamin C, is a good starting point. Smoking is one of the most significant factors in the initiation and progression of gum disease. Not only do smokers get more severe gum disease, they also lose teeth much earlier.

Gum disease can be prevented with good oral hygiene and regular visits to our dental hygienist. Once gum disease is established and bone loss has occurred the effects cannot be reversed. Special treatment will be required to arrest the disease and maintenance becomes more difficult.

Early stages of gum disease are treated with root debridement; often called deep cleaning, and usually carried out with the gum numbed. More advanced gum disease requires more specialized techniques for treatment. This usually involves gum surgery and it is sometimes possible to restore some of damage that has taken place with regeneration techniques.

In addition to treating gum disease, Periodontists also carry out cosmetic treatments, from covering recessions to improving the shape and contour of gums to improve your smile.

If you suspect gum problems, the starting point is a consultation with our Periodontist.

Post operative instructions following Periodontal Surgery

You have just had surgery carried out on part of your mouth.

This has been done with great skill and care. We hope that you heal without any discomfort or complication. However, the success of the treatment now depends on how well you look after yourself and your mouth from now on.

1. ANALGESICS.
   Please take the analgesics provided. This will be either Ibuprofen or Paracetamol. Take 400mg of Ibuprofen or 1000mg of Paracetamol every 4-6 hours for at least the first 24 hours.
2. SUTURES.
   There may be some 'stitches' keeping the gum in place round the teeth. Do not attempt to remove these yourself. They will be removed at your next appointment.
3. CORSODYL.
   A bottle of chlorhexidine mouthwash has been provided it is important to use this for at least the next two weeks at least 1 hour before or after brushing at night and in the morning. Some staining of the teeth may occur and this will be removed by polishing later.
4. TOOTHBRUSHES.
   Continue brushing, flossing and bottle brushing your teeth as normal avoiding the teeth involved in the surgery during the time the stitches are in place.
5. DIET.
   It would be wise to adopt a soft diet in the early stages and also to avoid very hot or very cold food and drink during the first 24 hours.
6. DAILY ROUTINE.
   Exertion should be avoided in the first few days and sensibly a light schedule should be arranged in your diary for the first 48 hours.
7. SWELLING.
   Some swelling may occur. This usually starts to subside after 4-5 days.
8. NEXT APPOINTMENT.
   You will have a further appointment booked in about a week for us to remove sutures and packs and check your progress.
9. DOUBT.
   If you are concerned that healing is not going well, please contact the practice for appropriate advice.
10. Do not smoke .