Periodontology

Periodontal disease

Periodontal (gum) disease refers to the inflammation and infection of the tissues that support the teeth. Initially, disease starts as bacterial populations grow with failure to adequately remove plaque with effective oral hygiene techniques. Initially the gums become red, swollen, tender and bleed when brushing. Bad breath can also be a symptom. This is the earliest stage of disease and is called “gingivitis”. This is reversible and can be managed with improved oral hygiene. Professional cleaning, together with Oral hygiene instruction is beneficial. Left untreated, disease may progress. Periodontitis is when the gum condition progresses beyond gingivitis into a chronic, destructive, irreversible inflammatory state. The bacteria penetrate deeper into the gum and bone tissues. tissues and surrounding periodontium. The invading bacteria trigger a host response (this is a reaction of living tissue to the presence of a foreign material) in defence. However, while trying to protect against the invading bacteria, the host defences also lead to the destruction of the periodontium (the supporting structure for the teeth, consisting of periodontal ligament, cementum, gingiva, and supporting bone).

Symptoms include bleeding gums, bad breath and loose teeth; however disease progression can often be insidious, progressing unbeknownst.

Regular dental examinations are essential for early diagnosis. Without treatment, tooth may become inevitable.

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We have dedicated teams of skilled clinicians who embrace interdisciplinary collaboration, within cutting-edge facilities, and are committed to your goals, providing you with the smile you deserve. Experience the difference today.

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We own and operate five dental practices across South Wales making us your perfect local choice.

Modern Equipment

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30+ Years Experience

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Meet Our Periodontal Team

Dr Gabriella Leatherdale-Tiba

Clinical Lead in PeriodontologyGDC No: 214556

DMD (2011), MSc (Periodontology, 2022)

I treat patients with periodontal disease referred to me by other dentists both with conventional therapy (root surface debridement, bone regeneration surgeries) as well as using laser (waterlase) where it's necessary....

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Sally Hooper

Dental HygienistGDC No: 4717

Dip DH (Cardiff University, 1994)

I'm passionate and motivated in helping patients with their dental health. Encouraging them their use of daily toothbrushing and interdental cleaning....

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Are Dental Implants suitable for everyone?

While Dental Implants are a highly effective tooth replacement option for the majority of people, not everyone may be a suitable candidate. Factors such as overall oral health, bone density, and medical history need to be assessed to determine the feasibility of a Dental Implant treatment. Where bone is inadequate, you may need augmentation of the site either during or prior to implant placement. Your Implantologist will evaluate your case and discuss viable solutions..

What are the benefits of Dental Implants?

Dental Implants offer numerous advantages, including improved speech, enhanced chewing ability, preservation of facial structure, and a natural-looking smile. They can also help secure full or partial dentures, providing a more comfortable and secure tooth replacement solution.

How much does laser treatments cost?

The cost of the laser procedure will depend on case complexity and management. Simple single tooth gum recontouring is from £85, while frenectomies are from £295. You will need a full assessment prior to any costing for any laser procedure.

What is PRGF?

With powerful regenerative properties, platelet rich growth factor Endoret® (PRGF) is being increasingly used in many fields, such as plastic surgery, dental implantology, and the treatment of sporting injuries. It has been shown to reduce scarring, rejuvenate facial tissues, as well as accelerate healing. Endoret claims to have “better osteoblastic (bone regenerating cells) properties and demonstrate lower post operative pain than other blood concentrates.” PRF releases growth factors over a longer period than PRP, offering more sustained benefits for skin repair and regeneration.

Who can join the practice?

All of our practices are open to any patient seeking emergency, routine or specialist dental treatment.

We are open to patients from across South Wales and beyond, as we believe that exceptional dental care knows no boundaries.

You don’t have to reside locally to experience the highest level of service our experienced team is committed to providing.

Join our practice and discover the difference that our experienced team can make to your dental health.

What kind of treatments do you offer at your practice?

At Cox & Hitchcock Dental Group, we take pride in being a multidisciplinary practice with a team of skilled dental experts. We offer a comprehensive range of treatments, from general dentistry to comprehensive cosmetic, periodontal, endodontic, orthodontic and implant dentistry, as well as providing dedicated hygienist and therapist services. All our practices offer a wide range of treatments. If you are looking for Private, Denplan or NHS dental services in South Wales, Cox & Hitchcock Dental Group is here to meet your needs.

What is a CBCT Scan?

Dental cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is a special type of x-ray equipment used when regular dental or facial x-rays are not sufficient. Your dentist may use this technology to produce three dimensional (3-D) images of your teeth, soft tissues, nerve pathways and bone in a single scan

What does a CBCT scan involve?

A CBCT scan is a simple procedure. The patient is carefully positioned (this takes a couple of minutes), asked to keep absolutely still, and the machine then rotates 360-degrees around the head while capturing a radiographic image. The computer software then uses this information to reconstruct a 3-D image. The scan time varies depending on the image required, but generally takes around 10 seconds to complete.

What is a Dental Implant?

A Dental Implant is a small titanium screw that is surgically placed into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. It serves as a stable foundation for attaching prosthetic teeth, offering a durable and natural-looking solution.