Adrian has been recognised as a Specialist in Periodontics (the treatment of gum disease) by the General Dental Council in periodontology since 2000. He is pleased to receive many valued referrals from colleagues and dentists whose patients have failing teeth due to gum infection.
Modern gum disease treatments mean that teeth which would otherwise be lost are often saved. Inflammation, bleeding, bad breath, sore gums, pus, movement of teeth and slightly loose teeth are all common problems of periodontal disease which can be successfully addressed if the patients are seen early enough. Even at a very late stage dental implants can still be placed with careful management.
Gum disease and general health
Many studies now suggest that untreated periodontal disease can have an adverse effect on the heart and circulatory system – and also on the developing baby in pregnant ladies. This is another good reason to ensure that your mouth is very healthy.
An individual approach to treatment
Whenever Adrian treats patients with gum disease he works extensively alongside his dental hygienist team to ensure that their general oral health is ready for surgical treatment (if needed) to deal with any deep seated or underlying infection.
The patient’s wishes are paramount. Often they travel considerable distances to our dental practice in Cardiff, so they want to have as much treatment as possible in one appointment. By contrast, others prefer a small amount to be done in multiple appointments. These priorities can always be accommodated to ensure treatment fits comfortably into their lives.
Treatment is carried out under local anaesthetic with sedation if required. Dissolving stitches can be used to simplify the process.
Gums frequently shrink as the infection resolves. This is a good thing and allows the gums to tighten around the teeth, providing a stabilising action, with teeth often tightening and improving their position, leading to greater comfort and enhancing the patient’s smile. This can have a cosmetic effect, certainly in the front of the mouth in the ‘smiling zone’ – something which Adrian carefully discusses with patients and then manages if required following treatment.
Long term cosmetic improvements are sometimes required once the gums have fully healed, this can then achieve a stable smile which would never have been possible without firm and stable teeth to act as solid foundations.
Long term follow-up plays a crucial role, with meticulous home care and a regular programme with the dental hygienist essential to achieve excellent long term results.
