Gingivitis:
The majority of people suffer from a mild form of gum disease (gingivitis) which can lead to bleeding gums. Plaque often also builds up on the neck of the tooth in this condition teeth forming a calcified deposit (calculus or “tartar”). Routine cleaning appointments with Christine are aimed at the treatment and ongoing prevention of these reversible problems.
Periodontitis:
A small proportion of the population (10-20%) are genetically more susceptible to the effects of plaque, and permanent (irreversible) damage may be caused to the attachment of the gum to the tooth (periodontitis). This can result in the formation of gaps between the gums and teeth (pockets) in which more plaque can collect and thus continue the progression of the disease. As the pockets deepen, the plaque becomes more inaccessible to cleaning, more extensive and more toxic. This leads to increasing damage to the supporting bone around the roots of the teeth.
Any gaps or pockets of 3mm or deeper are of major concern and will require specialist-supervised treatment, in addition to a rigorous daily home-care regime.
If professional gum-screening has identified areas of your mouth with these deeper pockets you may be referred to out periodontal specialist, Richard Snoad to ensure that your mouth is very intensively assessed for periodontal disease. A specific treatment programme will then be developed to most appropriately treat any problems you may have as a result.
All the Specialist Periodontics (gum-treatment) Programmes carried out by Richard Snoad conform to the latest evidence-based clinical specialist protocols.
To find out more about our Peridontist, click on and read about Richard Snoad.