Periodontal disease is an infection of the gum tissue, which can have a negative impact on your overall health in many ways. The team at Scott and Derry Dental Care is committed to helping our patients combat this condition through preventive dental care, oral hygiene education, and advanced gum disease treatments in Milton, ON.
How gum disease develops
Periodontal disease is an inflammatory condition, caused by infection of the gum tissue. It begins with plaque, the sticky substance that coats teeth between brushings. Plaque also settles around the gumline, where tissue attaches to teeth.
- If not completely removed, plaque hardens and becomes tartar.
- Tartar irritates gum tissue, causing inflammation and infection.
- Damaged gum tissue detaches from the surface of the tooth, creating a small pocket.
- The pockets around teeth are especially difficult to clean with a toothbrush, and they rapidly collect plaque and tartar.
- Additional tartar buildup causes further inflammation, and gums further detach from teeth, deepening the pockets.
- As the destructive cycle continues, infection can eventually reach periodontal ligaments, bone, and tooth roots.
- Advanced gum disease can eventually cause teeth to fall out or become so loose that extraction is the only option.
Preventing or reversing gum disease
The best way to prevent periodontal disease is diligent oral hygiene coupled with regular dental care. It is essential to brush at least twice a day, and floss at least once, in order to remove new plaque buildup. However, even with careful brushing and flossing, it can be easy to miss a bit of plaque here and there, especially between teeth or along the gumline.
Patient Educational Video about Gum Disease
Gum Disease – the 3 stages of gum disease are gingivitis, periodontitis and advanced periodontitis. Gingivitis is caused by toxins irritating the gum line as a result of plaque buildup. Signs and symptoms of gingivitis include swelling, sensitivity and bleeding of the gums during brushing and flossing. Gingivitis can be easily reversed through professional care and good home oral hygiene. Periodontitis is categorized by irreversible bone loss that results from untreated gingivitis. The gums may begin to form a pocket below the gum line which traps food and plaque. Dental treatment and home care can help prevent from further damage but at this stage, the results are not reversible. Advanced periodontitis is when the fibers and bones supporting the teeth are destroyed. This may cause teeth to shift or loosen. Teeth may have to be removed depending on how enhanced the disease is become and if treatments are not effective. You can begin by preventing gum disease with good oral health. Pick up a brochure or ask your dentist today.
During routine cleanings, your hygienist will remove any lingering tartar, and advise you about improving brushing technique. If any signs of gum disease are detected during your dental exam, we may recommend deep cleaning, which includes scaling and root planing. These simple steps can usually reverse early-stage gingivitis.
Treating advanced gum disease
It is never too late to restore your oral health! If you have gum disease, we will work with you to create an individual plan, based on your unique needs. This may include:
- Deep cleaning
- Antibiotic medications to kill infection
- Laser therapy
- An enhanced schedule of dental cleanings
- Restoration of damaged teeth, or replacement of lost teeth
Reviews and Smile Transformation Results
Wonderful place they do a great job.Satisfied with the service.
Gum Disease FAQs
What is gum disease, and how does it happen?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection that affects the tissues responsible for holding your teeth in position. It usually starts with plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth if they’re not cleaned properly. Over time, this can lead to inflammation and even damage the gums and bone. We cannot overemphasize the importance of brushing and flossing your teeth daily to maintain healthy and happy gums.
What are the most common signs of gum disease?
Do your gums bleed when you brush and floss your teeth? That might be an early sign of gum disease! Other symptoms include red, swollen, or tender gums, persistent bad breath, and even loose teeth in advanced stages. If you notice anything unusual, we encourage you to schedule an exam promptly—our team is here to help.
Can gum disease be reversed?
Luckily, yes! The earliest stages of gum disease, referred to as gingivitis, can often be reversed with proper oral care and professional cleanings. Regular visits to our office help prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. Taking action early is key!
Is gum disease common?
It’s more common than you think! Almost half of adults in North America have some form of gum disease. Fortunately, our team knows exactly how to treat it. They focus on preventive care to keep your smile healthy and thriving.
What can I do to prevent the development of gum disease?
Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes, floss daily, and schedule regular dental visits. We also recommend visiting the office for cleanings and check-ups every six months to stay ahead of gum disease.
Does gum disease hurt?
Not always! Gum disease often sneaks up on you without causing pain in the early stages. That is why regular check-ups are so important, as they help catch issues before they become serious. Do not wait for discomfort to take care of your gums!
Why should I care about gum disease if my teeth feel fine?
Healthy gums are the foundation for a strong, beautiful smile. Gum disease often leads to problems like permanent adult tooth loss and even affects your overall health and wellness, including increasing your chances of developing heart disease and diabetes complications. Dr. Jifri and her associates are dedicated to helping you protect your smile and overall well-being—because you deserve the best care.
Scott and Derry Dental Care - Dr. Jameela Jifri
If you are looking for a dentist facility where your entire family can get treated with the same professional care, Scott and Derry dental care is the one for you. We provide a comfortable environment for patients of all ages and backgrounds to get treated for dental related issues. With up to date technology and the latest equipment, we assure the best quality services from our skilled team of dentists led by Dr.Jameela Jifri. Our services range from preventive, general, hygiene, restorative dental treatments and cosmetic enhancements to dental surgeries. As we value your convenience we offer flexible appointment schedules with weekends and late-night appointment time and easy locations with free parking facilities. Dental facilities are designed with free Wi-Fi, a clean environment and a classy ambience to help patients relax and feel comfortable at all times. All treatments are catered to each patient's unique conditions and needs including their lifestyle and budget. Our staff consists of professional individuals who are passionate about helping people lead a healthier happy life and they are ready to guide you throughout the process with any help needed.
