Gum Disease Treatment in Canmore
Periodontal (gum) disease is a serious infection that targets the gum tissues and bone around your teeth, and if left untreated, can result in the loss of your teeth and other serious problems. It is a common disease that affects many adults and is caused largely by poor oral hygiene. The disease progresses in stages beginning with the mildest form called gingivitis. If caught and treated early, your chances for successful treatment are excellent. At Canmore Smiles, Dr. Grant Moldenhauer and Dr. Brian Piercy provide effective treatment for gum disease in Canmore. Contact us.
Symptoms
Listed below are the symptoms of gum disease:
Blood on your toothbrush
Gums that are red, swollen, or tender
Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
Teeth that have changed the way they fit together when you bite or new spaces between your teeth
Gums that have pulled away from your teeth making your teeth look longer than normal
Changes in the way your partial dentures fit
Permanent teeth that are loose
Painful chewing
Sometimes, you may not notice any symptoms although you may still have some form of the disease. Therefore it is important to have regular dental checkups with Dr. Grant Moldenhauer or Dr. Brian Piercy. If the mild form of periodontal disease (gingivitis) is left untreated, it can advance to periodontitis. Although plaque is the primary cause for gum disease, there are other factors, which can contribute to the disease and include:
Illnesses such as cancer where your immune system is compromised, but also systemic illnesses like diabetes can be linked to periodontal disease
Medications which cause dry-mouth and decreases saliva which has a protective effect on the teeth and gums
Smoking makes it more difficult for the gum tissue to repair itself
A family history of dental diseases
Treatments
Treatment for gum disease can vary depending on the stage of the disease, which is why it is important to catch it in its earliest stages when the therapy is the easiest and the least invasive. Treating gingivitis sometimes is as simple as a professional dental cleaning and a regular regime of good oral care at home. As the disease progresses, treatments that are more aggressive are used including:
Scaling and root planing - a deep-cleaning, nonsurgical procedure
Surgical Treatments
Flap surgery/pocket reduction surgery - gums are lifted back, and the tartar is removed
Bone grafts - replacing bone that has been destroyed by gum disease
Soft tissue grafts - reinforces thin gums
Guided tissue regeneration - stimulated bone and gum tissue growth
Periodontitis can cause tooth loss, and advanced research indicates that there is a direct link between the bacteria that cause gum disease and systemic illness, which can affect your heart, lungs, and other parts of your body.
The best way to prevent periodontal disease is with a good oral hygiene program and regular dental visits. Call us today at our office in Canmore where our caring staff are ready to help you fight gum disease!
FAQ
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How Can I Tell If I Have Gingivitis Or Periodontitis (Gum Disease)?
Four out of five people have periodontal disease and don’t know it! Most people are not aware of it because the disease is usually painless in the early stages. Unlike tooth decay, which often causes discomfort, it is possible to have periodontal disease without noticeable symptoms. Having regular dental check-ups and periodontal examinations are very important and will help detect if periodontal problems exist.
Periodontal disease begins when plaque, a sticky, colourless, film of bacteria, food debris, and saliva, is left on the teeth and gums. The bacteria produce toxins (acids) that inflame the gums and slowly destroy the bone. Brushing and flossing regularly and properly will ensure that plaque is not left behind to do its damage.
Other than poor oral hygiene, there are several other factors that may increase the risk of developing periodontal disease:
- Smoking or chewing tobacco – Tobacco users are more likely than nonusers to form plaque and tartar on their teeth
- Certain tooth or appliance conditions – Bridges that no longer fit properly, crowded teeth, or defective fillings that may trap plaque and bacteria
- Many medications – Steroids, cancer therapy drugs, blood pressure meds, oral contraceptives. Some medications have side affects that reduce saliva, making the mouth dry and plaque easier to adhere to the teeth and gums.
- Pregnancy, oral contraceptives, and puberty – Can cause changes in hormone levels, causing gum tissue to become more sensitive to bacteria toxins
- Systemic diseases – Diabetes, blood cell disorders, HIV / AIDS, etc.
- Genetics may play role – Some patients may be predisposed to a more aggressive type of periodontitis. Patients with a family history of tooth loss should pay particular attention to their gums.
Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
- Red and puffy gums – Gums should never be red or swollen
- Bleeding gums – Gums should never bleed, even when you brush vigorously or use dental floss
- Persistent bad breath – Caused by bacteria in the mouth
- New spacing between teeth – Caused by bone loss
- Loose teeth – Also caused by bone loss or weakened periodontal fibers (fibers that support the tooth to the bone)
- Pus around the teeth and gums – Sign that there is an infection present
- Receding gums – Loss of gum around a tooth
- Tenderness or Discomfort – Plaque, calculus, and bacteria irritate the gums and teeth
Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease.
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