Gum Disease Therapy in Lane Cove
Gum disease therapy is treatment that removes the plaque and tartar causing gum infection, helping your gums heal and stopping the disease from damaging the bone that supports your teeth. At our Lane Cove practice on Longueville Road, we treat gum disease at every stage for patients across Lane Cove, Lane Cove West, Longueville, Linley Point, Greenwich, Riverview, Artarmon, Crows Nest and Chatswood.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It usually begins as gingivitis, which causes red, swollen or bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, where the supporting bone and tissues are damaged.
Common signs of gum disease include:
• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath
• Swollen or tender gums
• Gum recession
• Loose teeth
Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent permanent damage.
At Lane Cove Family Dentist, our dentists will recommend appropriate home care measures and perform professional scaling above and below the gum line to remove plaque and tartar. This can be done in multiple visits using a local anaesthetic.
The relationship between periodontitis and smoking, diabetes and cardiovascular health conditions has been well established. Identifying the risk factors is critical in managing periodontitis.
In advanced periodontal cases, referral to a specialist periodontist will be provided.
Periodontitis can be prevented by good oral hygiene and early intervention when problems are identified. Regular six-monthly check ups are critical to avoid such oral health issues.
How Is Gum Disease Treated?
Treatment depends on how advanced your gum disease is. For most patients, it involves:
- Assessment: measuring the pockets around each tooth and taking x-rays to check for bone loss
- Deep cleaning: scaling above and below the gum line to remove plaque and hardened tartar, usually under local anaesthetic
- Root smoothing: smoothing the root surfaces so your gums can reattach and bacteria find it harder to build up
- Home care plan: tailored brushing and flossing advice to keep your gums healthy between visits
- Review: a follow-up visit to check how your gums have responded
Deep cleaning is often done over more than one visit. Once your gums are stable, regular periodontal maintenance visits help stop the disease from coming back. In advanced cases, we’ll refer you to a specialist periodontist.
For gum disease therapy and other services in Lane Cove, contact us on 02 9418 6102.
FAQs
Can lifestyle changes help manage gum disease?
Yes, lifestyle changes can significantly help manage gum disease. Adopting good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing twice a day and flossing daily, is crucial. Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption can also have a positive impact on gum health. Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports overall oral health. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential to monitor and manage gum disease effectively. After treatment, ongoing periodontal maintenance visits are key to preventing recurrence and keeping your gums healthy long term. Get in touch with our experienced dental practitioners on (02) 9418 6102 for related problems.
How does gum disease affect overall health?
Gum disease can have serious implications for overall health. Research has shown that untreated gum disease has been linked to heart disease, stroke, diabetes and respiratory issues. The inflammation caused by gum disease can spread to other parts of the body, potentially leading to systemic health problems. This makes it essential to address gum disease promptly to maintain not only oral health but overall well-being.
How can I prevent gum disease?
Preventing gum disease involves maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove plaque between teeth. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are vital for early detection and prevention. A healthy diet, avoiding tobacco, and moderating alcohol intake can also contribute to gum health. Using an antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce plaque and bacteria that contribute to gum disease.
Does gum disease treatment hurt?
Deep cleaning is usually done under local anaesthetic, so most patients feel little discomfort during treatment. Your gums may feel tender for a few days afterwards, and this usually settles quickly.
How much does gum disease therapy cost in Lane Cove?
The cost depends on how advanced your gum disease is and how many visits are needed. After your assessment, we’ll give you a full treatment plan with cost estimates. We accept all major health funds and offer HICAPS for on-the-spot claiming.