地址
7/151 Cowper Street
Dickson ACT, 2602
营业时间
星期一至星期四 9-5pm
星期五 8-3pm
星期六 (隔周营业) 9-5pm
Gum Treatment/Periodontics
Combat Gum Disease & Periodontitis at Dickson Park Dental Surgery
Your gums are the foundation of a healthy smile, holding your teeth securely in place. However, when gums become inflamed or infected, it can lead to a serious condition called periodontitis (advanced gum disease). If left untreated, periodontitis can cause tooth loss and even impact your overall health.
At Dickson Park Dental Surgery in Dickson, Canberra, we are committed to helping you maintain healthy gums and a stable smile. Our team provides comprehensive diagnosis and effective treatment for all stages of gum disease, from early gingivitis to advanced periodontitis, to protect your teeth for years to come.
What is Periodontitis (Gum Disease)?
Periodontitis is a severe infection of the gums that damages the soft tissue and, if left untreated, can destroy the bone that supports your teeth. It's the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
It typically begins with gingivitis, a milder form of gum disease characterised by inflamed and bleeding gums. If gingivitis isn't treated, it can advance to periodontitis.
Over time, plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) spreads below the gum line, causing the gums to pull away from the teeth, forming "pockets." These pockets become infected, and as the infection spreads, the body's immune response starts to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. Eventually, teeth can loosen and fall out or need to be extracted.
Causes and Warning Signs of Gum Disease in Canberra
The Primary Cause:
The main cause of periodontitis is poor oral hygiene. When plaque isn't removed daily through brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar (calculus). Tartar is porous and creates a rough surface for more bacteria to attach to, leading to ongoing inflammation and infection.
Other Contributing Factors:
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Smoking or chewing tobacco
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Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, menopause)
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Certain medications (e.g., those causing dry mouth)
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Genetics
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Systemic diseases (e.g., diabetes, heart disease)
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Poor nutrition
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Stress
Common Symptoms to Watch For:
Don't ignore these warning signs! If you notice any of the following, schedule an appointment at Dickson Park Dental Surgery.
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Red, swollen, or tender gums
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Bleeding gums during or after brushing/flossing
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Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
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Receding gums (teeth appear longer)
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Pus between your teeth and gums
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Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
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Loose or shifting teeth
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New spaces developing between your teeth
The Stages of Gum Disease: From Gingivitis to Advanced Periodontitis
Understanding the progression of gum disease can help you recognise the importance of early intervention:
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Gingivitis (Early Stage):
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Inflammation of the gums, usually caused by plaque buildup.
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Symptoms: Red, swollen gums that may bleed easily when brushing or flossing.
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Reversible: At this stage, proper daily brushing and flossing, along with professional cleaning at our Dickson clinic, can reverse gingivitis.
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Periodontitis (Moderate Stage):
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Untreated gingivitis progresses. Plaque and tartar spread below the gum line.
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Gums pull away from teeth, forming pockets.
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Bone and supporting fibres are damaged.
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Symptoms: More noticeable bleeding, bad breath, receding gums, mild bone loss, and possibly some tooth sensitivity.
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Advanced Periodontitis (Severe Stage):
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Significant destruction of bone and supporting tissues.
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Deep pockets, persistent inflammation, and infection.
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Symptoms: Severe gum recession, pus, mobile (loose) teeth, changes in bite, and potentially tooth loss.
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Early diagnosis and treatment at Dickson Park Dental Surgery are crucial to prevent the progression of periodontitis and save your natural teeth.
Periodontitis Treatment & Management in Canberra
The goal of periodontitis treatment is to stop the progression of the disease, reduce inflammation, eliminate pockets, and ultimately save your teeth. Our dentists at Dickson Park Dental Surgery will tailor a treatment plan based on the severity of your condition:
Non-Surgical Treatments:
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Professional Dental Cleaning: Regular cleanings remove plaque and tartar above and below the gum line.
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Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning): This is the gold standard non-surgical treatment for periodontitis.
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Scaling: Involves carefully removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line.
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Root Planing: Smooths the root surfaces to remove bacterial toxins and prevent future plaque buildup, helping gums reattach to the teeth.
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Ongoing Periodontal Maintenance:
After initial treatment, regular periodontal maintenance appointments are vital to prevent the disease from recurring. These involve thorough cleanings and monitoring your gum health. We'll also provide guidance on optimal home care to keep your gums healthy between visits.