Gum treatment
Gum disease, also known as periodontitis or periodontal disease, consists of an inflammation of the gums caused by the accumulation of dental plaque and tartar. It is rarely painful and many years may pass before a person knows he or she is infected.
Indeed, the dental plaque, a white residue accumulated on the teeth surface, is calcified over time and becomes tartar, a hard and granular substance that cannot be brushed or flossed away. Only the dentist or the dental hygienist can remove tartar.
From left to right: (1) Tooth and its healthy gums. (2) The accumulation of tartar and plaque causes inflammation of the gums and a beginning of bone loss. (3) Without regular treatment, the supporting bone is resorbed, causing tooth mobility.
The initial stage of the disease, called gingivitis, affects only the gums. They are swollen, bleed during brushing and may be more sensitive.
With time, the disease can progress to a more advanced stage and turns into periodontitis, which involves inflammation of the supporting tissues, including gums and bone. If the latter is seriously affected without being properly treated, it can lead to recurrent infections, mobility or even tooth loss.
Studies have confirmed links between periodontal disease and many health problems, such as:
• diabetes
• breathing problems
• cardiovascular illnesses
In addition, expectant women with gum disease are up to seven times more likely to give birth to premature babies or with low birth weight than women with healthy gums.
All our new patients, including those who consult us for a follow-up examination (recall), will receive a periodontal screening - a fast and effective method to evaluate the overall condition of the gums. An early detection of periodontal disease can simplify its treatment and avoids potential tooth loss.
... And what is gum treatment?
It is important to remember that periodontal disease cannot be treated or cured by mouthwash or antibacterial solutions.
The primary goal is to restore the health of the gums. We first recommend scaling, which involves removing the accumulated plaque and tartar on the teeth. If necessary, a root planing, a technique to smooth out the root of the tooth, is recommended when the fold between the tooth and the gums (called a pocket) is deep.
In some more advanced cases, when bone loss is important, surgical treatment may be required.
For more information, please visit the following link:
http://www.maboucheensante.com/en/mouth101/diseases/gum-disease