Healthy Smiles
Gum Care
Assessment and Management of Periodontal Disease in Newcastle
Healthy gums provide the foundation for long-term oral health.
Gum disease (periodontal disease) is a common condition that affects the tissues supporting the teeth. When identified early, it can often be managed effectively with appropriate professional care and ongoing maintenance.
At Junction Village Dental, we provide comprehensive assessment and personalised management plans to support gum health.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease begins with inflammation of the gums (gingivitis), which may cause:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
If left untreated, gum inflammation (gingivitis) can progress to periodontal disease. At this stage, the infection extends beyond the surface of the gums and begins to affect the deeper supporting structures of the teeth including the periodontal ligament (the tiny fibres that help anchor each tooth in place) and the surrounding bone. Gum disease that's left untreated can lead to tooth loss over time.
Signs You May Need a Gum Assessment
You may benefit from a periodontal assessment if you experience:
- Bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum tenderness
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- A family history of gum problems
Some people may not notice symptoms in the early stages, which is why regular examinations are important.
What Happens During a Gum Assessment?
A periodontal assessment involves:
- Measuring the depth of the gum pockets around each tooth
- Assessing gum inflammation
- Reviewing your medical history
- Evaluating plaque and calculus levels
- Taking radiographs (x-rays) where clinically indicated
This allows us to determine the presence and severity of gum disease and develop an appropriate management plan.
Treatment for Gum Disease
Management depends on the stage and severity of the condition.
Treatment may include:
Professional Cleaning and Debridement
Removal of plaque and calculus above and below the gum line.
Periodontal Therapy
More detailed cleaning of deeper pockets to reduce bacterial load and inflammation.
Personalised Oral Hygiene Guidance
Support and education tailored to your individual needs.
In some cases, referral to a specialist periodontist may be recommended for advanced management.
Ongoing Maintenance
Gum disease is typically a chronic condition that requires ongoing monitoring.
After initial therapy, regular periodontal maintenance appointments are important to:
- Monitor gum stability
- Prevent progression
- Support long-term tooth retention
The frequency of maintenance visits varies depending on individual risk factors.
Risk Factors for Gum Disease
Several factors may increase the risk of periodontal disease, including:
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Poor plaque control
- Genetic predisposition
- Certain medical conditions
We consider these factors when developing your care plan.
Our Preventative Approach
As part of our preventative philosophy, we focus on early detection and tailored management.
Oral Health Therapists play an important role in the ongoing care of patients with periodontal disease. At Junction Village Dental, gum health assessment and maintenance form an important part of our clinical services during your routine check up.
We aim to support patients in understanding their gum health and maintaining stability over time.
When to Seek Urgent Care
If you experience significant swelling, severe pain or rapid changes in gum condition, prompt assessment is recommended.
Book a Gum Health Assessment
If you are concerned about bleeding gums, gum recession or periodontal disease, our team can provide assessment and guidance.
