Gum Disease Treatment
Periodontal (Gum) disease is an infection of the tissues supporting and surrounding the teeth. It is mainly caused by the accumulation of bacteria from the dental plaque that inflames and damages the gums. This chronic infection attacks below the gum line where it breaks down the attachment of the tooth and its supporting tissues.
Several factors increase the risk of developing gum diseases, the most common of which include tobacco smoking and chewing, systemic illnesses like diabetes or cancer, hormonal changes during pregnancy and menstruation, medications such as contraceptives and anticonvulsants, ill-fitting bridges and fillings that have become defective.
Regular dental check-ups and examinations are important because it is possible to have gum infections without the usual signs and symptoms. They may advance painlessly, exhibiting few evident signs even in the late phase of the disease. This explains the increased risk of losing one’s teeth.
Regular dental check-ups and examinations are important because it is possible to have gum infections without the usual signs and symptoms.
Warning Signs of Gum Disease
- Bleeding gums
- Bad breath
- Red swollen and tender gums
- Pus discharge
- Pockets between gum and teeth
- Loose or separating teeth
- Gums that have pulled away from the teeth exposing the root
- Bad breath and persistent bad metallic taste in mouth
- The way the teeth fit during bites.
Periodontal diseases are classified according to the severity of the infection and are traditionally divided into two stages: Gingivitis and Periodontitis.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) is a fairly common infection that begins with the bacterial accumulation in the mouth. The buildup of plaque causes gums to become red and swollen and bleed easily. It is often a result of poor oral hygiene, inadequate nutrition and some other medical conditions.
When left untreated, gingivitis can progress to Periodontitis.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is the advanced stage of gingivitis where the severe infection erodes the supporting structures of the teeth. The progressive loss and destruction of the bones, teeth and gums weakens the attachments and loosens the teeth.
- Non-surgical Treatment (Scaling, Root planning, Local drug delivery)
- Periodontal Surgery (pocket reduction procedure and regenerative procedure, soft tissue grafts.)
- LASER: Our periodontist uses a Laser to treat many gum problems thus avoiding a surgery. Laser assisted treatment ensures more comfort, no bleeding and very fast healing for our patients. Sometimes within two days your gums will look completely normal after laser surgery!
- Cosmetic Gum Surgery (correction of gummy smile, making dark gums into pink, root coverage procedures to cover the exposed roots/long teeth) helps to create a beautiful smile.
Remember healthy gums can make your teeth last a lifetime!