Periodontics Service

The Oral Health Services Division has newly introduced Periodontics as a specialist unit that works in close collaboration with other dental professionals. On a referral basis, the unit provides treatment for patients in need of specialised care for advanced gum and implant diseases. The periodontics service currently operates weekdays from 7 am- 3 pm at the Yellow Roof building.

Services Provided

Presently, the periodontics specialist unit provides consultations as well as non-surgical, surgical and supportive gum treatment for patients.

Current Team Members

1 Periodontist: A dentist specialised in the management of gum and implant diseases.
1 Dental Surgery Technician: A dental professional who primarily assists the periodontist with clinical procedures.

What to Expect

If you have been diagnosed with advanced gum/implant disease, your general dental practitioner may refer you to the periodontist for specialised care. The periodontics team will contact you to confirm your appointment once your referral has been processed. Your scheduled appointment may be for one of the following:

Consultation

This is generally the initial appointment which usually lasts 45 minutes to 1 hour. The periodontist will enquire about your medical history, assess the conditions of your gums and may take x-rays to assess the conditions of the bone around your teeth. The treatment plan will be discussed with you and it will include oral health education. Depending on your current health status, the periodontist may have to consult with your physician or refer you for blood tests before starting any gum treatment. It is also important that you bring along any medications you are currently taking, to this appointment.

Non-Surgical Treatment

Surgical Treament

Depending on the severity of your gum disease or condition, you may gain additional benefit from minor surgical procedures. Surgical treatment may involve small incisions around the gums to allow access for deep cleaning around your teeth or for placement of grafts to restore damaged tissues. Local anaesthetics will be given for all surgical interventions so that you do not experience any discomfort throughout the procedure. You may be prescribed painkillers, mouthwashes and/or antibiotics after the procedure to support you during your recovery. It is not advisable to smoke after any surgical procedure as it can delay your healing process. You will be reviewed by the periodontist to ensure that you are healing normally.

Supportive Treatment

The success of treatment is highly dependent upon your personal motivation and habits. Ensure that you spend enough time on your daily oral hygiene routine and avoid smoking, in order to prevent your gums from getting infected again. The periodontist or other dental professionals will review your oral health status and provide you with the necessary support to help you maintain the health of your gums and teeth.