Gum disease is the infection or inflammation of the gums that damages the soft tissue and bone supporting the tooth. Gum disease usually starts with gingivitis- a mild form of the disease. Gingivitis causes the gums to become swollen, red, and bleed easily. At this stage, there is generally little discomfort or pain. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis- a more serious form of gum disease. During periodontitis, gums separate from the teeth, forming pockets that become infected. As periodontitis progresses, the pockets deepen, and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed. At Ashmed Dental, we have vast experience in the prevention and treatment of gum disease. Prompt treatment is the best way to get gum disease under control.
Our mouths are full of bacteria. This bacteria, along with other particles, constantly form a sticky, colourless “plaque” on teeth. Regular brushing and flossing help remove plaque. Plaque that remains on teeth can harden and form tartar that cannot be removed by brushing alone. Only a professional dental cleaning by a dentist can remove this tartar. If the tartar is not removed, the bacteria can cause inflammation that will affect the gums and lead to gum disease.
The treatment goals for mild gum disease such as Gingivitis are to identify and eliminate the factors that make the patient more prone to gum disease. Often, gum disease can be managed with more thorough and consistent oral hygiene habits and professional dental cleanings. After a thorough dental cleaning, we may prescribe a medicated mouth wash that specifically targets oral bacteria that cause gingivitis. In individuals with periodontitis, we may need to do deep scaling and root planing to clean teeth that are surrounded by deep pockets.
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