What happens if I do not treat gum disease?

In this article below, Dr Crystal Marruganti, a highly proficient and experienced London-based dentist, provides us with an all-you-need-to-know guide on gum disease, including the symptoms and treatment options. 

What is gum disease?

Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease affecting the gums that is mainly caused by plaque accumulation. It leads to receding gums, periodontal pockets, and bone resorption around the teeth.

What are the symptoms of gum disease?

The symptoms of gum disease are receding and bleeding gums, redness, swelling, as well as loose teeth.

What is the treatment for periodontitis?

The first line of treatment for periodontitis is commonly called deep cleaning and it consists of the removal of plaque and calculus below the gum with manual and mechanical instruments.This procedure is usually done in multiple sessions under local anaesthesia. The re-assessment of the deep cleaning is done three months after the end of the treatment.

What happens after the treatment for gum disease?

At re-assessment, the efficacy of the deep cleaning is assessed by performing a periodontal chart. At this point there are three options:

1. Gum disease was stabilised and the patient will be placed in a supportive periodontal care program.
2. Gum disease was stabilised but the patient needs additional treatments such as periodontal surgery (usually done to make the bone grow back). 
3. Gum disease was not stabilised, so another round of deep dental cleaning will be required.

What happens if I do not treat gum disease?

If gum disease is not treated, it will keep progressing until the tooth is lost. The sooner gum disease is diagnosed, the better chances we have to stabilise the disease and avoid tooth loss.

If you wish to consult with Dr Crystal Marruganti today, make sure you head over to her Top Doctors profile today to book an appointment with her.