Gum Disease
Vancouver, BC
Comfortable and Effective Holistic Periodontal Care
The Progression of Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, occurs when bacteria grow in the mouth. When left untreated, this bacteria can cause gingivitis, and eventually lead to periodontal disease.
Gingivitis
The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis, a condition in which the gums appear swollen and red. You may also notice bad breath, sensitivity, bleeding along the gum line, and gum recession. Gingivitis is often easily reversible with a good at-home oral care routine and regular trips to the dentist.
Advanced Periodontitis
When left untreated, gingivitis turns into advanced periodontal disease. During this stage, the condition damages soft and hard tissues. You may experience chronic bad breath, loose teeth, and tooth loss. This form of gum disease can require tissue grafting and other advanced treatments.
Treating Gum Disease
Our Vancouver practice will always try conservative treatment methods before resorting to surgical methods. Treatments available for patients with gum disease include:
Antibiotics
Antibiotics can eliminate the bacteria in your mouth that's causing your periodontal disease. Antibiotics, in combination with at-home oral care and regular dental appointments, are sometimes enough to reverse mild gum disease.
Deep Cleaning
Deep cleaning is a procedure in which plaque and tartar are removed from above and below the gumline. The tooth roots are then smoothed to encourage healthy reattachment to the gums. This procedure can treat mild to moderate gum disease.
Ozone Therapy
Ozone therapy can eliminate bacteria in periodontal pockets, prevent dangerous microorganisms from entering the bloodstream during procedures, and promote healing. Ozone therapy is often used in combination with laser gum surgery.
Laser Gum Surgery
Our lasers can be used to perform minimally invasive gum surgery. During this procedure, a laser removes infected gum tissue without damaging any surrounding healthy tissue, breaks down bacteria to prevent future infection, and promotes tissue growth.
Maintaining Your Oral Health
After treating periodontal disease, there are some simple things you can do to maintain your oral health and prevent the condition from developing again, such as:
Maintaining Proper At-Home Care
Brush your teeth with a soft-bristle toothbrush twice a day, floss once a day, and use a mouthwash to eliminate bacteria. If you have restorations, treat them like natural teeth and clean them as part of your oral care routine. Follow your dentist's specific instructions for maintaining your periodontal health.
Attending Regular Checkups
Regular checkups with our dentists will allow us to provide you with a professional cleaning that removes any bacterial buildup you miss with at-home care. We will also be able to monitor your oral health and check for signs of periodontitis and other dental concerns.
