Non-surgical treatments offer initial steps to address periodontal disease without invasive surgical procedures.
Scaling and root planing are the primary methods used by dental hygienists. It involves cleaning the surfaces of the teeth above and below the gum line to remove the build up of bacteria called calculus (commonly known as plaque or tartar). This procedure helps reduce gum inflammation and shrink gum pockets.
Your dental hygienist might also use antibiotics to treat gum infections. These medications can be applied directly to the gum tissue or taken orally. For families in Cloverdale and Surrey aiming to maintain optimal oral health, these treatments can help prevent periodontal disease from progressing. It is important to have your oral health and periodontal assessed by our team twice a year (also known as a check-up and cleaning), so we can provide the best treatment tailored to your specific needs.
Surgical treatments become necessary when periodontal disease advances beyond the early stages. If periodontal disease is diagnosed, patients may require a referral to a periodontal specialist for treatment.
One standard procedure is pocket reduction surgery. This surgery involves folding back the gum tissue to remove bacteria and reduce the size of gum pockets. Addressing these pockets can help in saving teeth that might otherwise be lost. This treatment is performed by a periodontal specialist.
Gum grafting is another surgical option for treating gum recession. This procedure takes soft tissue from another part of your mouth or a donor source and attaches it to the receding area. This helps cover exposed tooth roots and restore the gum line.
Bone grafting is used when bone loss has occurred due to advanced gum disease. Healthy bone or synthetic material is placed in the affected area to promote bone growth and provide a stable foundation for teeth or dental implants.
Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth.
Early periodontal disease starts with gingivitis, which causes the gums to become red and swollen and bleed easily. Common symptoms include bad breath, tooth sensitivity, and loose teeth.
Advanced gum disease, or periodontitis, leads to damaged gums and bone loss around teeth. You might notice puffy gums or experience bad breath, both signs that express the need for prompt periodontal treatment.
Several factors can increase your risk of developing periodontal disease. Poor oral hygiene, like not brushing or flossing regularly, allows plaque to build up along the gum line as the years go by. This buildup can lead to gum infection and inflammation.
Other gum disease risk factors include smoking, diabetes, and genetic predisposition. Even stress can affect your periodontal health by weakening the body's ability to fight off infections. Conditions like heart disease and certain medications can also increase your vulnerability.
Non-surgical treatments may cause some discomfort, but local anesthesia is used to minimize pain. Surgical treatments are performed under local anesthesia or Oral Conscious Sedation to manage pain and discomfort.
The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the disease. Non-surgical treatments may require multiple visits, while surgical treatments may be completed in one or two sessions.
The cost of treatment varies depending on the type of treatment, the severity of the disease, and benefits coverage. Many dental benefits plans cover a portion of periodontal treatment costs.
Maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups with a dental hygienist, is essential to treat gum disease and prevent the recurrence of periodontal disease. Quitting smoking and managing underlying health conditions like diabetes can also help.
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