Gum disease is also known as periodontal disease. This normally involves the inflammation of gums.
A patient can go to the same dentist or dentists for a number of years. A dentist may be considered negligent where he failed to recognise the deteriorating gum condition. The patient then goes to a new dentist or hospital and is told that the prognosis for a number of his or her teeth have been jeopardised.
Gum disease in the early stages involves inflammation, bleeding and bad breath. If caught in the early stages by careful brushing, flossing and mouth washes, then the gums can be treated and returned to normal.
Chronic stages of gum disease is when the infection spreads into the bone that holds the teeth in place and there is a breakdown of the tooth attachment to the gum and bone, leading to loss of bone, and they also reduce mobility of the teeth and loss of teeth. In this stage, the bones and fibres which support the teeth are progressively destroyed and pockets develop between the gums and the teeth. The loss of supporting bone can be easily seen on diagnostic radiographs.
Signs of gum disease include:
- Red, bleeding and/or swollen gums
- Bad breath
- Mobility of the teeth
- Tooth sensitivity
- Abscessed teeth
- Tooth loss
Treatment of gum disease
- Removal of plaque by way of scaling by your dentist or hygienist
- Mouth rinses prescribed by your dentist and frequent cleaning
- Surgery may be necessary in certain cases to stop, half or minimise progression of periodontal disease
When teeth are lost as a result of chronic gum disease, replacement may be by means of implants.
Gum disease can usually be prevented by good and careful teeth cleaning and regular cleaning or scale and polishes with your dentist or hygienist.
Your dentist should assess your gums every check-up and check areas of bleeding or look for areas where bone may be being lost, therefore your dentist should maintain full written medical history. Clinical records should include a basic periodontal examination (BPE). Furthermore, radiographs should be taken to monitor bone level.
If periodontal disease is detected then the dentist should normally have a full discussion with the patient giving advice on oral hygiene and treatment. Treatment will normally include scaling, polishing.
Carrying out cosmetic work on front teeth that exhibit chronic periodontis unless treated would be inadvisable.
There are statutory regulations and under The NHS Statement of Dental Remuneration, it is implied that examination of the gums is part of a dental examination. This will include clinical examination, advice, charting and monitoring. If a dentist does not examine the gums as part of the examination process then he is at risk of being found in breach of his contract with his local authority.
