Through regular Checkups & Cleanings, we can assess and monitor the condition of your gums, plaque and tartar build-up, oral hygiene, fillings, crowns and bridges, implants and other dental work.

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Even if you have dentures, regular checkups & cleanings are essential to check the tissues' health in your mouth and the denture's condition. One of the most critical roles is to check your gums and teeth through our staff of Registered Dental Hygienists. We scan for periodontal disease symptoms (also known as "gum disease") because at least 85% of the population may have a type of Periodontal Disease.  

GUM DISEASE (PERIODONTAL)

 

It is a bacterial infection that affects the ligaments and bones in the jaw.  Sometimes other conditions, such as diabetes, worsen the effects of periodontal disease. You could have Periodontal disease, and you may not even recognize it because, in the initial stages, the common symptoms can sometimes be very mild. Some patients are much more vulnerable to periodontal disease than others. It can be controlled and treated if detected in its initial stages; however, we may not undo the damage of bone loss caused by Periodontal Disease.

 

Studies suggest that up to 30 % of the population may be susceptible to gum disease by genetic means. This group will be much more likely to get the disease. Also, reasons such as smoking, some medications, high stress, puberty, pregnancy, diabetes, lacking oral hygiene, genetic factors, and even certain diseases that affect the body's immunity may make some individuals more prone to gum disease. On the other hand, patients with gum disease may also witness the effects of it reflecting in their overall health as Periodontitis affects the body's immune system.

SIGNS FOR GUM DISEASE

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1. Bleeding gums 

2. Bleedings gums when brushing or flossing your teeth.

3. Red, swollen, or sensitive gums.

4. Receding gums and teeth with tartar build-up.

5. Pain and discomfort when chewing.

6. Teeth that seem loose or change shape.

7. Dentures don't fit right when you wear them.

8. Pus discharge between teeth or gums when pressed.

9. Unpleasant odour or a chronic bad taste in your mouth.

10. Teeth that are too sensitive, and you can't consume anything hot or cold. 

We will diagnose the disease with X-rays, and an instrument called a periodontal probe to identify the gravity of the situation. Called the "silent disease," it is infamous for causing patients not to experience pain and keep them unaware of the problem until it becomes severe.

CAUSE OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE

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Bacterial plaque contact, a colorless film that develops on the teeth, causes gum disease; to form acids and bacterial toxins, the bacterial plaque interacts with sugars & starches in the diet, thereby irritating the gums and making them red, tender and swollen. It causes the gums to bleed.  If not removed regularly, plaque hardens around the surface and the teeth' roots to form calculus (also called tartar). The irritants can damage the tissue that connects the gums to the teeth. The gums start disintegrating from the teeth, and between the teeth and gums, tiny pockets develop. These sockets allow bacteria to grow, and as you cannot reach them with your toothbrush, it will worsen the condition and cause severe complications like bone destruction. 

 

Gingivitis is a mild version of periodontal disease. It causes gum inflammation, making it red and tender. Gingivitis is reversible with professional advice and care and proper dental hygiene. 

TREATMENT

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In diagnosing periodontal disease, a thorough examination is essential. In certain instances for adults, we prescribe an in-office test and cleaning twice a year, but depending on your general health and gum health, you may be required to come in or be examined by a doctor every three months. To measure the pocket's depth between the teeth and your gums, we can take X-rays and use a specific instrument called a periodontal probe. The assessment of the periodontal pocket and x-rays assist us in measuring the location, extent and symptoms of gum disease.

 

It is essential to care for your dental health at home. Brushing and flossing thrice a day or after every meal after the treatment is advised. It is important to avoid sticky and junk food.