What causes Gingivitis or Periodontal Disease?
Gingivitis or periodontal disease begins with bacterial growth in your mouth. If not properly treated, tooth loss due to destruction of the tissue that surrounds your teeth may occur.
In the early stage of gingivitis, bacteria in plaque build up causes inflamed gums and bleeding during tooth brushing. Periodontitis involves the destruction of the supporting structures of teeth where the inner layer of the gum and bone starts to recede from the teeth and form pockets of small spaces, allowing even more bacteria to collect. Infection sets in and bones, gums and connective tissue are destroyed.
Scaling and Root Planing (Non-Surgical Treatment)
Scaling and root planing is one of the most effective ways to treat gum disease before it becomes severe. It is a deep-cleaning of the teeth which is usually done under a local anesthetic. Plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line are scraped away (scaling) and rough spots on the tooth root are made smooth (planing). Smoothing the rough spots removes bacteria and provides a clean surface for the gums to reattach to the teeth.
When do you need Minor Gum Surgery?
For patients with deep pockets and gum inflammation, initial non-surgical treatment may not suffice. A minor gum surgery may be performed to remove residual tartar in deep pockets or to reduce it in order to make it easier to keep the area clean. If periodontitis destroyed bone or gum tissue, a bone or tissue graft or special material may be recommended to replace or encourage new bone or gum tissue to grow.
Draining of Abscess
An abscess is pus collected in a localised area. Dental abscesses can be in the form of infection of the pulp of the tooth (periapical abscess), infection of the gum and tissues surrounding the tooth (periodontal abscess) or a combination of both.
If uncontrolled, dental abscesses can spread to become facial infections. Make an appointment online to consult a dentist about the available treatment options.
About Raffles Dental
In Singapore, Raffles Dental provides a comprehensive range of services to prevent, diagnose and treat dental and oral diseases. Our dental clinics are conveniently located islandwide, and include Raffles Hospital, Holland Village, Woodlands, and Tampines. We are dedicated to providing the highest standard of professional care and service to our patients.