Periodontal Care in Melbourne for Gum Health and Implants
Gum problems can be easy to put off, especially when they are not causing any pain. You might notice some bleeding when you brush, a little swelling, or that your gums look different, but it is not always clear whether the change needs treatment.
If you are searching for a ‘periodontist near me’, you may be looking for some clarity about what is happening with your gums. A periodontist looks after the gums and the bone that supports your teeth, as well as problems that can develop around dental implants.
When Should You See a Periodontist?
You do not have to wait until your gums are painful or your teeth feel loose.
Some signs that can warrant a periodontal assessment include:
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Gum recession or exposed tooth roots
- Loose or moving teeth
- Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste
- A gum abscess or swelling around a tooth
- Changes around a dental implant
- Gum or bone loss identified by your dentist
- Excess or uneven gum tissue
It is also worth knowing that gum disease does not always cause pain. Changes around the teeth can develop without any obvious symptoms, which is why persistent bleeding or other changes are worth having checked.
What Will Your Periodontist Check?
Your first appointment is about finding out what is going on rather than jumping straight into treatment.
We will look at your gums and teeth and ask about any changes you have noticed. We will also check areas that are harder to see yourself.
This can include:
- Looking at the colour and shape of your gums
- Checking for swelling or bleeding
- Measuring the spaces around your teeth
- Checking whether your gums have receded
- Seeing whether any teeth are loose
- Looking for plaque and tartar
- Checking the bone supporting your teeth
- Taking X-rays if they are needed
These are important because some of the changes we are looking for cannot be seen just by looking in your mouth.
Why Is It Important to Find the Cause?
Gums can change for many different reasons, and the same treatment will not be right for everyone.
Take gum recession as an example. Receding gums do not automatically mean you have gum disease. The position of the tooth, the thickness of the gum, brushing habits and other local factors can all contribute.
The same applies to swollen or enlarged gums. Inflammation is one possible cause, but it is not the only one.
Finding out what is behind the change helps us decide whether anything needs to be done and, if it does, which treatment makes sense for you.
Will You Need Treatment?
Not every gum check-up results in treatment. Sometimes your gums are healthy and you simply need some advice about looking after them. In other cases, there may be inflammation or gum disease that needs to be treated.
Treatment can range from professional cleaning and help with your home care to more involved treatment where the deeper tissues around your teeth have been affected.
Whatever is recommended, you should understand why it is being suggested and what it is intended to address.
Take the Next Step With Your Gum Health
If something about your gums has changed, having it checked can give you some clarity about what is going on. From there, you can decide with your periodontist whether anything needs treatment or whether it simply needs monitoring.
If a ‘periodontist near me’ has been on your search queries and you would like to discuss a concern about your gums or dental implants, you can contact Melbourne Periocare on 03 9817 1860 or book an appointment online.
Book your 45-minute consult today for a professional and detailed assessment, and take that first step towards your confident smile again!
Booking Your 45 Minute Periodontist Appointment in Melbourne is the start to your journey back to confidence and a healthy smile.
