Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. However, millions of people in Singapore and around the world suffer from some form of gum disease. At Shuang Dentistry, we offer comprehensive gum disease treatment in Yishun to help you restore your gum health and prevent further complications. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing you with gentle, effective care in a comfortable and supportive environment.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It is typically caused by poor brushing and flossing habits that allow plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—to build up on the teeth and harden. In its early stage, known as gingivitis, gum disease can cause red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can advance to periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss.
Understanding the Stages of Gum Disease
It is important to understand the different stages of gum disease so that you can seek treatment as early as possible. The two main stages are:
Gingivitis: This is the earliest stage of gum disease and is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. It is often caused by inadequate oral hygiene and is reversible with professional treatment and good home care.
Periodontitis: If gingivitis is not treated, it can advance to periodontitis. At this stage, the gums pull away from the teeth, forming spaces called pockets that become infected. The body’s immune system fights the bacteria as the plaque spreads and grows below the gum line. Bacterial toxins and the body’s natural response to infection start to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. If not treated, the bones, gums, and tissue that support the teeth are destroyed. The teeth may eventually become loose and have to be removed.
Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease
Gums that bleed during and after tooth brushing
Red, swollen, or tender gums
Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
Receding gums
Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums
Loose or shifting teeth
Changes in the way teeth fit together upon biting down, or in the fit of partial dentures
Our Approach to Gum Disease Treatment
At Shuang Dentistry, our approach to gum disease treatment is tailored to the individual needs of each patient. We begin with a comprehensive examination to assess the extent of the gum disease. This may include taking dental X-rays and measuring the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums.
Non-Surgical Treatment
For early-stage gum disease (gingivitis), treatment typically involves a professional cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing. During this procedure, we will remove the plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. We will also smooth out the tooth roots to help the gums reattach to the teeth.
Surgical Treatment
For more complex cases of gum disease (periodontitis), surgical treatment may be necessary. This may include:
Flap Surgery/Pocket Reduction Surgery: This procedure involves lifting back the gums and removing the tartar. In some cases, the damaged bone is reshaped to decrease the pockets where bacteria can hide.
Bone Grafts: This procedure uses fragments of your own bone, synthetic bone, or donated bone to replace bone destroyed by gum disease. The grafts serve as a platform for the regrowth of bone, which restores stability to teeth.
Soft Tissue Grafts: This procedure reinforces thin gums or fills in places where gums have receded. Grafted tissue, most often taken from the roof of the mouth, is stitched in place, adding tissue to the affected area.
The Shuang Dentistry Commitment to Your Health
We understand that the thought of gum disease treatment can be daunting. That is why we are committed to providing you with a comfortable and stress-free experience. We use the latest techniques and technologies to ensure that your treatment is as gentle and effective as possible. Our team will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and goals.
We also believe in the importance of patient education. We will take the time to explain your condition and treatment options in clear, easy-to-understand terms. We will also provide you with the tools and knowledge you need to maintain good oral hygiene at home and prevent the recurrence of gum disease.