Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile
At Park Road Dental Care, we check the health of your gums at every checkup. We educate and empower our patients to halt and reverse gum disease where possible, and support patients with periodontal treatment where its not possible to reverse.
Gum disease (periodontal disease) is very common and often develops quietly without any pain. Many people don’t realise they have it until changes are picked up by their dentist during a routine checkup.
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is a severe form of gum disease which affects not just the gums but also other supporting structures around the teeth. It’s caused by an immune response to bacteria in dental plaque, and causes bone loss around teeth over time. The bone loss can make teeth become loose, and if left untreated, can eventually lead to loss of teeth and the need to wear dentures (false teeth).
Common signs of periodontal disease include:
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath
- Red, swollen or sore gums
- Gum recession or teeth looking “longer”
- Teeth feeling loose or moving over time
Gum disease isn’t usually painful, so regular examinations are needed for detection and successful treatment.
How we identify gum disease
Gum health is always assessed as part of your routine dental examination. This may include:
- Measuring the health of the gums around each tooth
- Checking for bleeding, gum inflammation and recession
- Assess of bone levels on X-rays
- Looking at plaque build-up and risk factors
If we identify signs of periodontal disease we might recommend booking in for a periodontal assessment and treatment visit to give the time for a detailed assessment, advice and deep cleaning.
What periodontal treatment involves
Gum disease is a long-term condition that needs careful monitoring and ongoing treatment.
Your treatment will depend on the severity of the condition, but may include:
- Detailed assessment of you gum health
- Close-up X-rays to help assess bone levels and measure any bone loss
- Advice on the best way of treating gum disease at home
- Removal of tartar (calculus)
- Deep and thorough cleaning under the gum line
- Advice on appropriate recall intervals
- Ongoing regular maintenance cleaning where required
We’ll always explain what’s needed, why it’s recommended, and what alternative options there are – so you can make an informed decision. We can support you in stabilising the condition and hope to help you keep your teeth for life.
A calm, supportive approach
We understand that periodontal treatment can sound daunting. We take things at your pace, explain everything clearly, and are particularly mindful of nervous or anxious patients.
If you ever need a break, adjustments to treatment, or extra reassurance – just let us know.
Book an appointment
If you’ve been told you have gum disease, or you’re concerned about bleeding gums or gum health, the first step is a routine dental examination.
From there, we’ll advise whether a periodontal assessment and treatment appointment is needed.