Gum Disease Treatment at Nova Smiles Dental
At Nova Smiles Dental, we believe a healthy smile goes deeper than just having teeth that are free of tooth decay. It’s also essential to have good gum health, to ensure that the foundation which supports each tooth is stable.
Every tooth has thousands of tiny ligaments between the root, gum tissues and bone to keep it anchored within the jaw. But gum infections can cause those attachments to deteriorate, leading to tooth mobility and eventual loss.
Periodontal Disease Symptoms
When gum disease (periodontitis) sets in, it can lead to a host of symptoms including:
- Swollen, red gums
- Bleeding
- Bad breath
- Gum recession
- Tartar buildup
Periodontal disease starts out as gingivitis, which is a minor inflammation along the gumlines caused by plaque biofilm. At this stage, a gum infection can be completely reversed with a scale and clean and improved home hygiene. But when gingivitis has progressed into soft tissue detachment and bone loss, periodontal therapy is necessary.
To determine the extent of the attachment loss, a periodontal screening will be conducted and measurements taken around each tooth.
Treatment for Gum Disease
Periodontal therapy typically consists of a series of deep cleans, where calcified and soft bacterial deposits are removed from the root surface of teeth. A “pocket” exists where harbouring bacteria accumulate under the tissues that have detached. By cleaning these hard-to-reach areas, the tissues can begin to heal and potentially re-attach to the tooth surface.
Some periodontal therapy cases are staged in two or more appointments, especially if local anaesthetic will be used. Following your deep cleanings, you may need to be seen more frequently (as often as every 3-4 months) to prevent relapse as your body recovers.
The Risk to Your Health
Gum disease doesn’t just reduce the longevity of your smile; it can also negatively impact your overall health. Scientific research shows that the more aggressive the periodontitis is, the higher the risk the individual has for cases of stroke, pneumonia, infertility, heart attack, diabetes and more.
Take the First Step Towards a Healthier Smile
If you have gums that are swollen or bleed easily, schedule a periodontal evaluation with us today.
* Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
