Periodontal Treatment

What is periodontal treatment?

Periodontal treatment is the specialist cleaning of your teeth and gums to help control the bacteria that cause gum disease. An expert or specialist in providing this treatment is called a Periodontist or Dental Periodontist.

Gum disease is caused by the germs (bacteria) which live in your mouth. The bacteria stick to your teeth, irritate the gums and make them bleed. Gum disease can eventually destroy the gum and bone which support your teeth.

Some people get more severe gum disease than others. This may have specific causes such as diabetes or smoking, but some people are just more prone to gum disease.

What happens during the initial periodontal treatment?

Dr Moonga will first help identify the the ‘tartar’ (calculus) caused by bacteria from above the gum line by disclosing the mouth. Once identified, a rigorous protocol of  first using air abrasion or air polishing to remove any large deposits, then a deeper cleaning (often called scaling) of the teeth.

If the disease has already destroyed some of the support for your teeth, the dentist will also remove bacteria and calculus from under the gum by cleaning (scaling and instrumenting) your teeth. This involves the careful use of fine powered and hand operated cleaning instruments on the tooth surfaces.

Periodontal treatment is given over several appointments and the number of appointments you will need depends on how severe and widespread your disease is. Patients with more aggressive forms of gum disease may be asked to take short courses of antibiotics after treatment.

Dr Moonga will also teach you the best methods of cleaning your teeth and gums to remove the bacteria. Treatment will be most effective if you clean your teeth thoroughly on a daily basis.

What are the benefits – why should I have periodontal treatment?

After periodontal treatment, your gums will become healthier, which will help you keep your teeth longer. The improvements will depend on how good your cleaning becomes and how severe your disease was to start with.

If your gums bleed, are red or are swollen this will get better. If your gums are sore, treatment should help and if your teeth feel loose they may feel firmer after treatment. And your breath may become fresher.

What are the risks?

The gums occasionally feel sore after scaling but should feel better after a few days.

Your teeth may become sensitive to hot, cold or sweet substances but usually this will decrease within a few weeks.

Sometimes you may need to use special toothpaste or have other treatment.

Are there any alternatives?

No treatment: The result of not having treatment will depend on how severe your disease is. With no treatment the gum disease could get worse. Your teeth could become painful or you may lose your teeth sooner.

Extractions: Removal (extraction) of teeth may be an acceptable alternative treatment if your gum disease is severe. This may mean you need replacement teeth such as a denture or bridge. Such treatment would routinely be provided by your own dentist. Some people find it easier and more enjoyable to eat with natural teeth than a denture.

Extractions would reduce the time spent treating your gums and an extraction would remove a painful tooth quickly. An extraction may also be a suitable option if teeth are loose. If your front teeth have a poor appearance a denture may look better.

Does a Periodontist provide gum disease treatment?

A periodontist is a dentist who specialises in all manner of gum conditions and treatments. In particular, the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease. A periodontist can also carry out gum surgeries, such as gum contouring, crown lengthening, gum grafts and are often trained to provide dental implants.

The treatment of gum disease is a combined effort – without the efforts of the patient following up at home with a thorough cleaning routine, the success of gum disease treatment is significantly reduced.

How can I prepare for periodontal treatment?

Continue to take any medications as normal. Please make sure that you tell us about any problems with your health and about any tablets or medicines you are taking. Some medical conditions change the advice and information we need to give you. If you smoke tobacco we recommend that you stop smoking as gum treatment does not work as well in smokers as non-smokers.

What happens after the procedure?

As the gums become healthier they may shrink or recede and the teeth may appear longer. You may also notice spaces appearing between the teeth.

What do I need to do after I go home?

There are no special precautions that need to be taken when you return home. You will need to continue with tooth cleaning at home and stick to the special advice given to you by your dentist.

How much does Periodontal Treatment cost?

The vast majority of patients (almost 80%) require non-surgical treatment. This treatment often referred to under the umbrella term “full mouth disinfection” or “Initial therapy”. See our dental charges for the latest prices. Further surgical and non-surgical treatment may be required in some cases which will be discussed at a review appointment.

Finance your periodontal treatment with Tabeo

It only takes 2 minutes to apply and you’ll get an answer straight away. Applying for a loan has never been easier.

Calculate my rate
Available for many treatments and for up to £30,000. Credit decisions will be subject to your individual circumstances. You must be over 18 and earn an income to apply.

See our price list Here for detailed information on the cost of all periodontal treatment options

Periodontal Dentist Manchester

Dr Moonga is a Dentist with a Special Interest in Periodontal Treatment and has completed a masters post graduate qualification in Periodontal Treatment at UCLAN. He has been exclusively providing periodontal treatment at a number of dental practices across the North West.