Periodontal Disease in Kingston, Jamaica

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a serious oral health condition that affects the gums and the bone that supports your teeth. It is a progressive infection caused by the buildup of plaque and bacteria on the teeth and along the gumline. When plaque is not removed through proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits, it hardens into tartar and triggers inflammation of the gums. Over time, this inflammation can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets where bacteria thrive.

If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to destruction of the supporting bone and connective tissues, ultimately resulting in tooth loss. Beyond oral health, gum disease has also been linked to systemic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. At Southdale Dental, periodontal care focuses on early diagnosis, effective treatment, and long-term maintenance to protect both your smile and overall health.

Understanding Periodontal Disease in Kingston, Jamaica

Periodontal disease typically begins as gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease. Gingivitis is characterized by red, swollen, or bleeding gums and is often reversible with professional cleanings and good home care. When gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more advanced stage that causes irreversible damage to the bone and tissues supporting the teeth.

As periodontal disease progresses, gum pockets deepen, bacteria spread further below the gumline, and bone loss accelerates. Teeth may become loose, shift position, or eventually fall out. Because periodontal disease often progresses without significant pain, many patients are unaware they have it until it reaches an advanced stage.

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Recognizing the symptoms of periodontal disease early is essential for successful treatment. Common signs and symptoms include:

• Bleeding, swollen, or tender gums
• Red, shiny, or inflamed gums
• Gums that pull away from the teeth (gum recession)
• Tenderness or pain when chewing
• Persistent bad breath or bad taste
• Pus around the teeth or gums
• Teeth that appear longer due to receding gums
• Increased sensitivity to hot or cold
• Dry mouth (xerostomia)
• Gums that do not look or feel healthy

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to seek professional dental care promptly.

Diagnosis of Periodontal Disease

Diagnosing periodontal disease involves a comprehensive dental examination. Your dentist will assess the health of your gums, teeth, and supporting bone. This includes visually inspecting the gums for inflammation, recession, or signs of infection and evaluating your bite.

A specialized instrument called a periodontal probe is used to measure the depth of the pockets between your gums and teeth. Healthy gums typically have pocket depths of 1 to 3 millimeters. Deeper pockets indicate inflammation, infection, and bone loss associated with periodontal disease.

Dental X-rays may also be taken to evaluate bone levels around the teeth and detect bone loss that cannot be seen during a visual exam. These findings help determine the severity of the disease and guide treatment planning. Contact us to learn more.

Treatment of Periodontal Disease in Kingston, Jamaica

Treatment for periodontal disease depends on the severity of the condition. The primary goal of treatment is to remove bacteria, reduce inflammation, and prevent further damage to the gums and bone.

Non-Surgical Treatments

In mild to moderate cases, treatment may include:

 

• Professional deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline
• Antibiotic therapy to control bacterial infection
• Improved home oral hygiene practices

These treatments help reduce pocket depth and allow the gums to heal and reattach to the teeth.

Surgical Treatments

In advanced cases, surgical intervention may be required. This can include gum surgery to reduce pocket depth, regenerate lost bone, or reshape gum tissues. In some cases, special dental appliances may be used to stabilize loose teeth.

Your dentist or periodontist will carefully evaluate your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment to restore periodontal health.

Maintaining Periodontal Health

Maintaining periodontal health is essential, especially after treatment. Daily oral hygiene habits play a major role in preventing disease progression and recurrence. This includes:

• Brushing at least twice daily with proper technique
• Flossing daily to remove plaque between teeth
• Using recommended mouth rinses
• Attending regular dental checkups and cleanings

Patients diagnosed with periodontal disease often require more frequent professional cleanings to maintain gum health. Your dentist will provide personalized instructions to help you care for your gums at home and reduce the risk of future infection.

Cost of Periodontal Disease Treatment in Kingston 10, Jamaica, West Indies

The cost of periodontal disease treatment in Kingston 10, Jamaica, West Indies, varies based on the severity of the disease and the type of treatment required. Approximate cost ranges include:

• Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing): J$15,000 – J$40,000 per quadrant
• Periodontal maintenance visits: J$8,000 – J$20,000 per visit
• Antibiotic therapy: Additional cost depending on medication
• Gum surgery: J$80,000 – J$200,000 or more, depending on complexity

At Southdale Dental, treatment plans and costs are clearly discussed before any procedure begins. Our goal is to provide effective care while helping patients make informed decisions about their oral health.

Conclusion

Periodontal disease is a serious but manageable condition when diagnosed and treated early. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss, bone damage, and increased risk of systemic health issues. Recognizing symptoms and seeking prompt dental care are key steps in protecting your oral and overall health.

At Southdale Dental in Kingston 10 near me, our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive periodontal care focused on prevention, early intervention, and long-term maintenance. Through personalized treatment plans and patient education, we help patients regain and maintain healthy gums.

If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease or have concerns about your periodontal health, do not wait. Visit Southdale Dental in Kingston 10, Jamaica, West Indies, and take the first step toward healthier gums and a stronger smile.

For the best dental care, visit Southdale Dental, Shop 8, E. Southdale Plaza, 3 South Ave, Kingston 10, Jamaica, Kingston 00010, or call (876) 929-3312.