Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. Despite this, many people are unaware of how to properly care for their gums and avoid seeking treatment. To avoid gum disease, we recommend a positive oral home care routine alongside routine visits with one of our experience hygienists.
Our hygienists will recommend a course of treatment known as RSD (Root surface debridement) This treatment is sometimes known as ‘deep cleaning’, it requires the careful removal of plaque and tartar deposits from the root surface of the tooth along with the use of local anaesthesia, iodine irrigation and sometimes anti-microbial adjuncts.
In a healthy mouth the gum forms a tight cuff around the tooth preventing bacterial invasion. If plaque control is insufficient the gum becomes inflamed causing swelling. This opens the cuff around the tooth allowing bacteria to enter the area. In the long term this causes pockets to form between the gum and tooth potentially leading to bone loss and subsequent tooth loss.
Our hygienist will carry out root surface debridement to clean deep into the periodontal pocket of the root surface and remove bacterial toxins. This procedure is usually carried out under local anaesthesia for patient comfort utilising a combination of hand instruments and an ultrasonic scaler over a number of appointments. A review appointment 8-10 weeks after the initial course of treatment will highlight any areas needing further treatment.
A treatment estimate will be given prior to the start of this course of treatment, should you require any more information please call the practice and we will be happy to answer any questions.
