From mild gum irritation to severe infections, gum disease affects millions worldwide. So, Singapore isn’t an exception.
Fortunately, with modern dental advancements, there are so many options for gum disease treatment in Singapore. In this article, we’ll explain what gum disease looks like. We will also clarify when you should see a specialist for gum disease treatment in Singapore and, whether gum disease can be cured among other issues.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease which is also commonly referred to as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that surround and support teeth. It typically begins with plaque buildup, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth.
If not removed by brushing and flossing, this plaque hardens into tartar, which then causes gum irritation and inflammation. Gum disease develops in two key stages:
- Gingivitis: This is the earliest stage, where gums become red and swollen, and may bleed easily during brushing or flossing. With good oral hygiene and professional cleanings, you should be able to reverse gingivitis.
- Periodontitis: If you have gingivitis that remains untreated, it can develop to periodontitis. In this stage, the inner layer of the gums pulls away from the teeth and forms pockets that can become infected. The body’s immune response, combined with bacterial toxins, starts to break down the bone and tissue that hold teeth in place, potentially leading to tooth loss.
When Should You Visit a Gum Disease Specialist?
For gum disease treatment in Singapore, the specialist you will want to see is professionally known as a periodontist. You should visit a gum disease specialist if you experience symptoms like:
- Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing.
- Swollen, red, or tender gums.
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis).
- Gum recession, where teeth appear longer than usual.
- Loose or shifting teeth.
Can Gum Disease Be Cured?
Being diagnosed with gum disease can be devastating news. This explains why several people search online; can gum disease be cured?
The simple answer is yes. But, there is a problem. The possibility of curing gum disease depends on its stage. In its early stages, gum disease is fully reversible. To clear the infection and inflammation to restore your gums to full health, all you may need is professional cleaning and proper oral hygiene practices.
Once gum disease progresses to periodontitis, it cannot be cured. But that doesn’t mean that your fate is sealed.
While advanced gum disease causes permanent damage to the bone and tissues that support your teeth, timely intervention can prevent further deterioration. For those with periodontitis, long-term management includes regular deep cleanings, specialized treatments, and consistent oral care at home. The goal is to prevent the condition from worsening and to maintain the health of the remaining bone and tissue.
How is Gum Disease Diagnosed
When referred to a periodontist for gum disease treatment in Singapore, the very first thing you should expect is a thorough examination to assess the severity of your gum disease. Here’s what the diagnostic process typically looks like:
- Visual Inspection: The periodontist will examine your gums for signs of inflammation, bleeding, or recession.
- Periodontal Probing: A small, specialized tool is used to measure the depth of pockets between the gums and teeth. Pockets deeper than 3mm may indicate periodontitis.
- X-rays: These are often taken to check for bone loss in areas where the disease is more advanced.
Based on the examination, your periodontist will classify your gum disease as mild, moderate, or severe. This classification is essential for determining the most effective treatment plan. Early-stage gum disease can often be treated with non-surgical methods.
More advanced stages may require surgery. Non-surgical treatments for gum disease typically include;
- Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning): This procedure involves the removal of plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smoothing the roots of the teeth to prevent bacteria from reattaching. It’s the most common treatment for early-stage gum disease and can significantly reduce inflammation.
- Antibiotic Therapy: In some cases, antibiotics are prescribed to kill the bacteria causing the infection. If you’re prescribed antibiotics for gum disease, you can take them orally or apply them directly to the affected area. Topical antibiotics like gels or mouth rinses may also be used to target specific areas.
- Laser Therapy: Laser therapy is a more modern approach that uses focused light to remove infected tissue and promote healing. It’s less invasive than traditional treatments and can reduce recovery time.
In more advanced cases of periodontitis, surgery may be necessary to restore oral health. Common surgical treatments for gum disease include:
- Flap Surgery: Also known as pocket reduction surgery, this involves making small incisions in the gum to lift the tissue back. This process allows for deep cleaning of the tooth roots and removing bacteria trapped in deep pockets. Afterward, the gum is stitched back in place.
- Bone and Tissue Grafting: If gum disease has destroyed the bone that supports your teeth, a graft may be needed. Bone grafting involves placing small pieces of your bone (or synthetic material) in the affected area to stimulate new bone growth. Tissue grafts are used to cover exposed roots, which can help restore gum tissue.
- Guided Tissue Regeneration: This technique encourages the regrowth of bone and gum tissue by placing a special membrane between the bone and gum. It prevents the gum from growing into the bone’s space to allow the bone to regenerate.
Prevention is the best way to avoid gum disease. To prevent gum disease, maintain these four easy habits;
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove food particles and plaque.
- Get professional cleanings every six months to remove plaque and tartar that regular brushing can’t reach.
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support your gum health. On the same note, avoid sugary snacks and drinks, which can encourage plaque buildup.
- Smoking is a significant risk factor for gum disease. If you smoke, quitting will dramatically reduce your chances of developing gum issues.
Closing Thoughts
Gum disease is a serious condition, but with the right treatment and preventive care, it can be managed effectively. Keep in mind that, early detection is key. So, be sure to visit a specialist if you notice any signs of gum problems. If you’re in Singapore, schedule an appointment now at;
An Dental – Orchard Dentist | Dental Implant | Wisdom Tooth Extraction | Kids Dentistry Singapore
360 Orchard Rd, #03-06/07 International Building,
Singapore 238869
+65 6513 9549
