Periodontal Therapy Mississauga
Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is a common condition that affects the gums and the tissues and bone supporting the teeth. It develops when plaque and bacteria accumulate around the teeth and trigger inflammation. Without appropriate treatment, the infection and inflammation can progress from the gums to the deeper supporting structures of the teeth.
The two main stages of periodontal disease are gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis affects the gums and is generally reversible when the underlying causes are addressed. Periodontitis is a more advanced form of gum disease that can damage the tissues and bone supporting the teeth and may eventually lead to loose teeth or tooth loss.
Why Early Detection of Gum Disease Matters
Gum disease does not always cause significant pain, particularly during its early stages. Some people may notice bleeding when brushing or flossing, while others may have few obvious symptoms. Regular dental examinations allow your dentist to check the gums, measure periodontal pockets, identify areas of inflammation, and detect changes that may not be visible to you at home.
Maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental check-ups can help reduce plaque buildup and identify gum problems before they become more advanced. Your dentist may also recommend periodontal screening when there are signs or risk factors associated with gum disease.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Possible signs of gingivitis or periodontitis include:
- Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste
- Gum recession or teeth appearing longer
- Tooth or gum sensitivity
- Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
- Loose or increasingly mobile teeth in more advanced cases
Having one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that you have periodontitis, but they should be assessed by a dental professional. Periodontal disease can also be present without noticeable symptoms, which is why routine examinations are important.
How Is Periodontal Disease Diagnosed?
During a periodontal examination, Parkway Family Dentistry may evaluate the appearance and condition of your gums, check for bleeding and inflammation, measure the depth of the spaces around your teeth, and assess tooth stability. Dental X-rays may also be recommended when necessary to evaluate the bone supporting the teeth.
The findings help determine whether the problem is gingivitis, periodontitis, or another condition affecting the gums. Your dentist can then recommend treatment based on the severity of the disease and your individual oral health needs.
Treatment for Gum Disease
Treatment depends on how advanced the periodontal disease is. For early gum inflammation, improving daily oral hygiene and receiving professional dental cleanings may be sufficient to control the condition. When plaque and calculus have accumulated below the gum line and periodontal pockets have developed, scaling and root planing may be recommended as a non-surgical periodontal treatment.
Scaling and root planing removes plaque, calculus, and bacterial deposits from the tooth and root surfaces, including areas that cannot be cleaned effectively with routine brushing and flossing. More advanced periodontal disease may require additional treatment or referral to a periodontist. Depending on the individual case, treatment can include periodontal surgery, bone grafting, or locally delivered antimicrobial medication.
Preventing Periodontal Disease
Daily plaque control is an important part of maintaining healthy gums. Brushing twice a day, cleaning between the teeth, attending professional dental cleanings, and following the recommendations of your dental team can help reduce the buildup of plaque and calculus.
If you have previously been diagnosed with periodontal disease, regular periodontal maintenance appointments may also be recommended. The frequency of these visits depends on the condition of your gums and your individual risk factors.
To protect your gums and supporting teeth, schedule regular dental examinations and periodontal screenings at Parkway Family Dentistry in Mississauga.
