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Gum Disease / Periodontitis

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A periodontist specialist is a dentist who has received extensive training in the treatment of oral inflammation, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of gum disease and periodontitus. They are also expert in placing dental implants.

Gum Disease / Periodontitis

Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the tissues and bones surrounding and supporting the teeth. It is a common dental problem, in fact it is estimated that half the adult population has some degree of gum disease and most people experience it as least once. If you have gum disease, your gums may bleed when you brush your teeth and you may have bad breath. In serious cases, teeth can become loose and eventually fall out.

Gum disease is known as the silent disease. Did you know that if gum disease is left untreated, it can rob you of your smile? Gum disease is also associated with other illnesses such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Your dentist can help you to protect your smile and your oral health.

What causes gum disease?

The main cause of gum disease is the build up of plaque on the teeth around the gumline. If not removed by regular brushing, it will irritate the gum tissue leading to inflammation and soreness. Over time, plaque hardens into a substance called tartar and this must be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist.

You are more likely to get gum disease if you smoke, do not clean your teeth well, or have gum disease in your family.

gum disease
Gingivitis

This is the inflammation of gum tissue. Plaque or tartar build up along the gum line causes swelling which may lead to bleeding when brushing or flossing your teeth. Because this type of gum disease does not cause pain, many people fail to get proper treatment. Thankfully, gingivitis is preventable and reversible through regular brushing and flossing.

Periodontitis

This more serious condition develops if gum disease is not addressed. Symptoms include bad breath, bleeding or receding gums and an itchy sensation. If periodontitis is not treated, the bone in your jaw can decay and small spaces can open up between the gum and teeth, causing the teeth to become loose and eventually fall out. Unlike gingivitis, this type of gum disease is irreversible and can be excruciatingly painful during the later stages.

Treating gum disease

If your gums are painful, inflamed, or if they bleed when you brush your teeth then you should make an appointment to see your dentist as soon as possible. We can take X-rays of your teeth to look for bone damage and other problems. We can treat periodontitis by performing a process known as root planning and scaling. Severe cases of gum disease may require surgery.

If you require more information about gum disease or would liek to meet our Periodontist, then please do not hesitate to contact us.