Periodontal Disease: The Disease, The Risks and The Treatment
With Dr Fran Hodson, Dentist with a Special Interest in Periodontal
Periodontal disease (often referred to as gum disease) is one of the most common oral health conditions affecting adults in the UK, yet it is frequently misunderstood or overlooked until it reaches an advanced stage. At its core, periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the gums and the supporting structures of the teeth, including the bone. If left untreated, it can progress slowly over time and ultimately lead to tooth mobility and tooth loss.
In this article, Dr Fran Hodson explains what periodontal disease is, the risks associated with it, and the modern treatment options available to help manage and stabilise the condition.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease begins with the accumulation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gums. When plaque is not effectively removed through daily brushing and interdental cleaning, it can harden into tartar (calculus), which can only be removed by a dental professional.
The earliest stage is known as gingivitis, where the gums become inflamed, red, and may bleed easily during brushing or flossing. At this stage, the condition is reversible with improved oral hygiene and professional cleaning.
However, if gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress into periodontitis. This is a more advanced form of gum disease where the inflammation spreads deeper below the gum line, damaging the bone and connective tissues that support the teeth.
The Risks of Periodontal Disease
One of the challenges with periodontal disease is that it can develop quietly, often without causing pain in its early stages. This means many patients are unaware there is a problem until significant damage has already occurred.
As the disease progresses, the following symptoms and risks may develop:
- Persistent bleeding gums
- Swollen, tender, or receding gums
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Increased spacing between teeth
- Eventually, tooth loss if the supporting bone is severely affected
Beyond oral health, research has also suggested links between periodontal disease and systemic health conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other inflammatory conditions. While gum disease does not directly cause these conditions, inflammation in the mouth can contribute to the overall inflammatory burden in the body.
Why Early Diagnosis is So Important
Early detection is key to preventing long-term damage. Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, can often be completely reversed with timely intervention. However, once periodontitis develops, the focus shifts from reversal to management and stabilisation.
Regular dental check-ups and hygiene appointments play a crucial role in identifying early signs of disease. Dental professionals can measure gum health using periodontal probing, assess bone levels through radiographs, and create a tailored treatment plan based on individual needs.
Treatment Options for Periodontal Disease
Treatment for periodontal disease depends on the severity of the condition. Under the care of a specialist such as Dr Fran Hodson, treatment typically follows a structured, step-by-step approach.
1. Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy
This is usually the first stage of treatment and involves deep cleaning below the gum line, known as scaling and root surface debridement. The aim is to remove plaque and tartar deposits that are contributing to inflammation and disease progression.
Patients are also supported with personalised oral hygiene instruction to improve their daily cleaning routine at home.
2. Ongoing Maintenance Therapy
Periodontal disease is a long-term condition that requires regular maintenance. This typically involves more frequent hygiene appointments to keep bacteria levels under control and prevent the disease from reactivating.
3. Surgical Treatment (where necessary)
In more advanced cases, periodontal surgery may be recommended to access deeper areas of infection, reduce pocket depths, and improve long-term stability of the teeth and gums.
Living with and Managing Periodontal Disease
While periodontal disease cannot always be fully cured once it has progressed, it can be successfully managed in most cases. The goal of treatment is to stabilise the condition, prevent further deterioration, and help patients maintain their natural teeth for as long as possible.
Long-term success relies heavily on patient involvement. Consistent and effective oral hygiene at home, combined with regular professional care, is essential in keeping the disease under control.