Periodontal Care in Calgary, AB
Do you have red, swollen, bleeding gums? Notice your teeth are loose?
At Image Dental we are proud to offer a variety of periodontal disease treatment options for our patients that suffer from gum disease and want to manage the disease and associated symptoms.
Periodontal gum disease is an extremely common dental disease. In fact, it is the highest cause of tooth loss and loss in adults around the globe and affects about 75% of people over 35. Periodontal disease infection of the gums caused by poor oral hygiene, bacteria, and plaque. In earlier stages of periodontitis (gingivitis) the condition can be treated entirely and reversed, however, once the condition progresses it can only be managed through proper at-home dental care and routine visits to your dentist.
Plaque is a sticky film that repeatedly forms in your mouth and on your tooth, comprised mostly of bacteria. When bacteria and plaque are not correctly removed from the mouth daily, it begins to produce toxins, irritating your gums and causing them to become inflamed and swollen. As plaque hardens into calculus and continues to accumulate, patients often begin to experience damage to periodontal fibers, allowing “periodontal pockets” to form around teeth. As these periodontal pockets continue to grow, the bone supporting your teeth is also destroyed, leading to loose teeth and eventually tooth loss.
Because many patients who suffer from periodontal disease show no signs or symptoms, it is important to schedule routine professional care with your dentist. This will allow for an earlier detection and treatment of gingivitis, stopping your periodontal disease from progressing into a more severe and incurable problem.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
At home, you can look for signs of periodontal disease. Call our office today if you are experiencing any of these symptoms:
- Red Gums
- Swollen Gums
- Tender Gums
- Bleeding Gums when you brush your teeth
- Infected Gums
- Teeth feeling loose
- Differences in the way teeth fit together when you bite
- Dentures not fitting right or feeling loose
- Bad Breath
Of course, the only way to confirm a diagnosis of periodontal disease is to have your mouth thoroughly examined. During an examination, your gums are evaluated for bleeding, swelling, firmness, and irregular contours by your dentist or periodontist. Your teeth are also checked for movement and sensitivity, as well as your bite (which could be a contributing factor to the condition) is also assessed. Full mouth x-rays less than a year old are usually required to detect the breakdown of bone surrounding your teeth.
Periodontal probing below the gum line involves measuring and recording the depth of the pockets around each tooth, which you can’t see or feel. Probing is the key technique your dentist uses to find out how severe your disease is and to plan your treatment.
Non-Surgical Periodontal Gum Disease Treatment
In less severe cases of periodontal gum disease, non-surgical periodontal care may be the perfect option.
- Scaling & Root Planing – During scaling, any plaque, tartar or calculus buildup is gently and thoroughly removed from the teeth. Root planing is then performed to smoothen the tooth roots, allowing the gums to re-attach and heal properly.
- Dental Curettage – If gum pockets have formed around teeth, periodontal curettage can be used to remove the soft tissue lining, allowing the gums to heal.
Surgical Periodontal Gum Disease Treatment
In more severe cases of periodontal gum disease, surgical periodontal care may be required.
- Gingivectomy – During a gingivectomy, overgrown, excess gum tissue is removed, eliminating the space where bacteria often collect.
- Periodontal Flap Surgery – During flap surgery we can remove any diseased tissue, plaque or calculus buildup that has occurred on the roots of teeth, the gums are then secured back in place to allow for proper healing.
Good periodontal health starts with the patient. To prevent or control gum disease:
- Meticulously brush and floss your teeth every day after every meal.
- Eat well-balanced meals and avoid sugary, “junk food” snacks
- Be on top of examining your mouth for any early signs of gum disease
Don’t forget to see your dentist at least every six months for a thorough cleaning and oral examination.
Schedule Your Calgary Periodontal Gum Disease Treatment
If any of the symptoms listed above remind you of your mouth, you can benefit from periodontal care in Calgary, AB. Call us today at Image Dental to schedule your appointment and help your gums stay healthy for years to come!
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