How Periodontal Exams Help In Gum Disease Prevention

How-Periodontal-Exams-Help-In-Gum-Disease-Prevention

Periodontal diseases, ranging from gingivitis to periodontitis, present significant risks to the mouth and teeth. They may cause inflammation, tooth loss, and other systemic diseases. Oral checkups are essential to detect the early signs of gum diseases before they advance to another stage. These tests help the dentist find signs of gingival inflammation or bone loss and provide the right treatment if necessary. 

This blog will explore the causes, symptoms, and essential prevention methods, focusing on the role of periodontal exams in maintaining healthy gums.

A] What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, refers to infections of the tissues surrounding the teeth, mainly caused by plaque buildup. It starts with gingivitis, where gums become inflamed and red and may bleed easily. If untreated, it advances to periodontitis, where bacteria destroy the tissue and bone supporting the teeth, leading to possible tooth loss. Gingivitis is reversible with proper oral care, but periodontitis often requires more intensive treatment to prevent long-term damage. Early treatment is key to avoiding severe outcomes.

B] Risk Factors and Causes

1. Poor Oral Hygiene

Not brushing or flossing thoroughly can lead to the accumulation of plaque, a bacterial film that hardens into tartar, which irritates the gums and triggers infection. Daily oral care is essential for periodontitis prevention.

2. Diet

High consumption of sugary or carbohydrate-rich foods fuels harmful bacteria, promoting plaque formation and increasing the risk of gum disease. Maintaining a balanced diet with limited sugar intake can reduce plaque buildup and help prevent periodontal disease.

3. Smoking

Tobacco use impairs the immune system, making it difficult for the body to fight off gum infections. Smokers are more likely to suffer from severe gum disease and experience delayed healing after treatment. In fact, smoking is a leading cause of recurrent periodontitis. To prevent gum disease, it is essential to avoid smoking habits. 

4. Health Conditions

Systemic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease can exacerbate gum disease. For example, diabetics have higher blood sugar levels, which makes it easier for bacteria to thrive, while inflammation caused by gum disease can worsen cardiovascular health.

C] Recognising Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Common symptoms of gum disease include:

  • Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Swollen or receding gums
  • Loose teeth or gum sensitivity

Symptoms like gum inflammation or bleeding may be mild in the early stages, so they often go unnoticed. As the disease progresses, it can lead to severe gum recession, tooth mobility, or loss. Since early signs can be subtle, regular periodontal exams are essential for preventing gum disease or treating it before it becomes severe.

D] Periodontal Exams and Tests

A periodontal disease exam involves several key procedures to assess gum health:

  • Probing: A small instrument measures the depth of the gum pockets (spaces between teeth and gums). Shallow pockets are healthy, while deep pockets may indicate periodontitis.
  • X-rays: These images help assess bone loss around teeth, a sign of advanced gum disease.
  • Visual Examination: Dentists also inspect the gums for signs of redness, swelling, and receding gums.

These tests provide a clear picture of the patient’s gum health and allow for early intervention when necessary. A dentist can identify and address issues early to prevent significant gum and bone deterioration.

E] Treatment Approaches

1. Non-Surgical Treatments

  • Professional cleanings: Routine dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar, particularly in areas regular brushing can’t reach, helping to maintain healthy gums.
  • Scaling and Root Planing: This deep cleaning procedure is an effective periodontal disease treatment. It smoothens the tooth roots to eliminate bacterial buildup and allow the gums to heal. It is often the first line of treatment for moderate cases of gum disease.
  • Antibiotics: Sometimes, dentists prescribe antibiotics to control bacterial infection, either in oral form or applied directly to the gums, to reduce inflammation.

2. Surgical Treatments

  • Flap Surgery: For more advanced cases of periodontitis, gum disease treatments involve lifting the gums back to remove tartar buildup and reduce the size of gum pockets. After cleaning the area, the gums are reattached snugly around the teeth.
  • Bone Grafting and Tissue Regeneration: In cases where the bone supporting the teeth has been destroyed, a bone graft helps restore stability. Similarly, tissue regeneration encourages the regrowth of gum and bone, providing better support for the teeth and reducing the risk of tooth loss.
  • Gum Grafts: To address severe gum recession, gum grafting involves taking tissue from another area of the mouth and attaching it to the affected areas to cover exposed roots and prevent further gum damage.

These treatments address existing damage and help prevent further complications, ensuring that the patient’s gums and teeth remain healthy and functional.

Conclusion

Proper oral hygiene and regular periodontal exams are essential for preventing gum disease. Early detection through routine checkups allows dentists to treat gingivitis before it progresses to periodontitis, saving your gums, teeth, and overall health. Brush and floss daily, eat a balanced diet and see your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams. By taking these preventive measures, you can safeguard your smile and prevent the serious consequences of gum disease.

If you are looking for dentists in the Sunshine Coast to help you with periodontal exams, contact Oris Dental. Our experts ensure you get comprehensive dental services under one roof and provide you with a healthy and radiant smile. 

FAQs

Q) How to prevent periodontitis?

Ans: Consistent oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits, are the best ways to prevent periodontitis. Avoiding smoking and maintaining a healthy diet can also lower your risk.

Q) How to prevent gum disease?

Ans: Preventing gum disease involves thorough brushing and flossing twice a day, minimizing sugar intake, and attending regular dental check-ups for professional cleanings and exams.

Q) How can periodontal gum disease be prevented?

Ans: Periodontal disease can be prevented by maintaining good oral hygiene, quitting smoking, managing systemic health conditions, and ensuring early detection through regular dental visits.

Q) What is the purpose of the basic periodontal examination?

Ans: The basic periodontal exam measures gum pocket depths, detects signs of gum inflammation or bone loss, and helps assess the overall health of the gums for early disease intervention.

Dr. Adarsh Pisharodi - Dentist at Oris Dental

Dr. Adarsh Pisharodi

Dr. Adarsh Pisharodi, serving as the principal dentist at Oris Dental, brings a wealth of expertise spanning over 26 years to his esteemed practice. Specializing in cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and orthodontics, he takes immense pride in rejuvenating countless smiles and instilling confidence in Sunshine Coast residents. As an esteemed member of the Australian Dental Association and esteemed dental societies, he remains steadfast in delivering exceptional care to his patients.

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Dr. Adarsh Pisharodi

Dr. Adarsh Pisharodi, serving as the principal dentist at Oris Dental, brings a wealth of expertise spanning over 26 years to his esteemed practice. Specializing in cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and orthodontics, he takes immense pride in rejuvenating countless smiles and instilling confidence in Sunshine Coast residents. As an esteemed member of the Australian Dental Association and esteemed dental societies, he remains steadfast in delivering exceptional care to his patients.

Adarsh (Principal Dentist)

Adarsh

Adarsh (A-Dash) is the principal dentist at Oris Dental. Adarsh graduated as a dentist in 1996 from the University of Mumbai (Bombay, India). He entered private practice as an assistant dentist in one of the leading practices in Mumbai from 1996-2002. The practice offered all aspects of dentistry with the exception of Orthodontics. This prompted Adarsh to pursue a post graduate degree in Orthodontics and successfully completed the 3 year Full time the master’s program from University of Mumbai (Bombay, India) in 2005. Since then, Adarsh has been in private practice both as a general dentist and an orthodontist. He also served as teaching faculty at University in Mumbai for 3 yrs and when in India, he has been ‘the dentist’ to many dentists!! In 2008, Adarsh took the Australian Dental Council exam for direct recognition of his skill in Australia. He successfully completed the exams in the first attempt and moved to Australia early 2009. He has been in private practice in Australia since Jan 2009. Oris Dental was set up in Minyama in 2011. Oris Dental is now over 8 years old and is growing to be a well-respected practice in the area. He is particularly interested in Cosmetic dentistry Dental implants and Orthodontics. Adarsh hopes to use all the experience he has gained in the past 22 years, to offer the best in dentistry to all his patients in this practice. Adarsh believes in spreading smiles and has successfully designed smiles and in doing so improved the lives and self-confidence of many Sunshine Coast locals (Take a look at our Smile gallery!). Adarsh is an active member of the Australian Dental Association since 2009 He held the post of Senior Lecturer in Orthodontics in Mumbai University before moving to Australia. He is a Life member of the Indian Dental Association, serving as the General Secretary of the Association (Mumbai City Chapter) 2007-2009 He is Life member of the Indian Orthodontic Society. He is Candidate for Membership Examination MRACDS (Ortho) and plans to complete his membership exams soon. Adarsh is also currently pursuing his Diploma in Implant dentistry at the Royal College of Surgeons(Edinburgh). Adarsh has recently complete intensive training in implant placement and restoration in Neoss and TRI (Swiss) Implant system. He is married to Prachi for 15yrs and they have a 11 yr old son – Aarjav, a little daughter Aria who has just started prep and Daisy the mad Lab pup! He is currently learning to play Tennis and Badminton and loves watching the cricket!

Prachi (Owner/ Dentist)

Prachi

Prachi is the director, part time dentist at Oris Dental. Prachi graduated in 2002 from Nair hospital dental college, Mumbai (Bombay, India), one of the leading dental schools in Asia. She then worked in multiple private practices across Mumbai (Bombay, India). While working as a dentist in various practices she picked up the positives from them and implemented them into this practice at Oris Dental. She is very friendly by nature and is particularly good at handling children, preventive dentistry and hygiene. Prachi moved to Australia in 2009. Prachi has there on completed her Australian Dental council exams successfully in early 2011 and is now ready to bring in her 12 years of experience to Oris Dental. Prachi also serves as a part time dentist at the Oral Health Services Sunshine Coast in Caloundra Kawana and Nambour as needed.

Davina (Dentist)

Davina

Davina has been a part of our family since 2014. After completing her bachelor’s degree from the University of Queensland, Davina has been in private practice in an around the Sunshine coast for a year before joining us full time. Davina shows exemplary skills in building a great relationship and rapport with her patients and is well regarded by her peers. Davina is very highly regarded by her current patients. Davina currently works 3 days a week.

Lise Slack (Dental Hygienist)

Lise Stack

Our dental hygienist Lise Slack is a trained member of the dental team who works together with your dentist in preventing gum diseases and dental decay.

Lise joined OrisDental in 2015 and has worked extensively in private specialist practices. She graduated from the University of Stellenbosch in South Africa in 1982 and has had specific training and exposure to an extensive range of periodontal conditions and treatment modalities.

Lise’s dad was a professor in dentistry and this is where her love of teeth comes from. She has invented two specialist oral care products which are available in Australia and several international countries. Lise has also lectured at international dental conferences on the maintenance of dental implants and how to help patients care for their teeth once they have contracted periodontitis.

Both adults and children can benefit from having an appointment with a dental hygienist as they are taught how dental diseases occur and how it can be prevented or managed.

Lise is married to Sam and they have two daughters. They value their family time and love adventurous outdoor sports.

Jesse (Dental Assistant)

Jesse (Dental Assistant)

Jess has been a part of Oris Dental from the outset in 2011. Always cheerful and welcoming Jess is the star amongst our patients at our practice. If you cannot find Jess in the practice she will be at the beach!

 

Kaela (Receptionist)

Debra (Receptionist)

Kaela arrived at our practice in early 2021. Coming from eight years of retail experience in Northern NSW, she loves working with people and assisting in any way she can. Kaela has also just finished her training as a dental assistant. You will immediately fall in love with her happy, bubbly personality.

Abby (Sr. Dental Assistant)

Abby (Dental Assistant)

Abby is originally from Hervey Bay, but she has been calling the Sunshine Coast home with her husband and two kids for the past four and a half years. Abby completed her cert III in dental assisting in 2015 and is looking to further her studies In the near future. Abby enjoys camping, playing guitar, and travelling
the world with her family.

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    Dr. Param Dass

    Dr. Param Dass

    Param Dass graduated with a Bachelor in Dentistry from the University of Otago, NZ in 2005. He went on to complete his Bachelor in Medicine from the University of Auckland NZ in 2010.

    Param started working part time in our practice since 2015 with special interest in surgical procedures including Dental implants and bone grafting procedures, Surgical extractions including Wisdom teeth and other minor surgical procedures.

    Param is well known for being gentle and caring in treating patients with dental anxiety and maintains a calm demeanour.

    He is also well trained in working with patients with various levels of anxiety, offering dental treatment under Happy Gas, Twilight sedation or under Full general anaesthetic.

    Dr. Brayden Fracchia

    Dr. Brayden Fracchia

    Brayden hails from North Queensland, having completed his Bachelor of Dental Surgery at JCU Cairns, practicing in Hobart and outreach dentistry from Mount Isa over the course of his studies. He has worked with us since 2020. Brayden enjoys becoming a part of a community and enjoys the outdoors and sport in his spare
    time. Having only recently moved to the beautiful Sunshine Coast, Brayden is enthusiastic and well versed in all aspects of basic general dentistry and looks forward to bringing North Queensland hospitality to the South East.

    Briar

    Briar

    Briar stated off as a trainee dental assistant in our practice mid-2020. She is the youngest member of our practice and is rapidly becoming an integral part of team Oris. Briar completed her Certificate 3 in our practice in 2021 and works full time Dental assistant at Oris Dental.

    Drew

    Drew

    Drew is Oris Dental’ newest member, who has only recently moved from his hometown of Rockhampton. He is our Oral Health Therapist, who specializes in oral health education, general check-ups, fillings and more!
    He loves a good chat and a laugh at work. He prioritizes patient’s comfort and likes to encourage an environment where everyone feels a sense of security and safety in the dental setting. When Drew isn’t at work you’ll find him having a refreshing swim at the beach or having his usual dirty chai at his local cafe.

    Jasmine

    Jasmine

    Jasmine joined our practice in November 2021 and works with our Oral Health Therapist Drew. Jasmine is new to dental assistance, however is quickly taking on any and all challenges that come her way! She loves animals, and spending quality time with her husband and two kids. Welcome to the team!

    Brooke

    Brooke

    Brooke is originally from Brisbane but has been living on the coast since 2017. She brings over 15 years of experience in the dental industry and has had the opportunity to work in London and Melbourne for the Royal Flying Doctors. Brooke enjoys surfing, scuba diving and exploring the many things that the Sunny Coast has to offer.

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