Periodontal
Dentistry
Periodontal Care in Pembroke, ON
When it comes to maintaining a healthy smile, effective periodontal care is essential. Parkview Dental is your go-to dental office for comprehensive periodontal care. Discover why Dr. James Munro is one of the best dentists in Pembroke, ON, for your oral health needs.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, affects the tissues surrounding and supporting your teeth, including your gums, ligaments, and jawbone. It typically begins as gingivitis, a mild periodontal disease, and can progress to more severe stages if left untreated.
Causes of Gum Disease
Several factors contribute to the development of gum disease, including:
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Failing to brush and floss regularly allows plaque to build up on your teeth and gums. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can irritate the gums and lead to gum disease.
- Tobacco Use: Smoking or using smokeless tobacco increases the risk of gum disease. It also makes treatment less effective.
- Genetics: Some individuals may be genetically predisposed to gum disease, making it more difficult for their bodies to fight off infections.
- Health Conditions: Certain medical conditions like diabetes and HIV can weaken the immune system, making it easier for gum disease to develop.
- Medications: Some medications, such as antihypertensive drugs and certain anticonvulsants, can contribute to gum tissue changes, increasing the risk of gum disease.
- Poor Nutrition: A diet lacking essential nutrients can impair the body’s ability to fight off infections, including gum disease.
Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of gum disease is crucial for early intervention. Contact our Pembroke office if you experience any of the following:
- Bleeding Gums: Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing may indicate gum disease, particularly in its early stages.
- Red and Swollen Gums: Healthy gums should be pink and firm. Redness, puffiness, or tenderness can be signs of gum disease.
- Persistent Bad Breath: Chronic bad breath that doesn’t improve with oral hygiene may indicate gum disease.
- Receding Gums: Gums pulling away from the teeth, causing them to appear longer, could indicate gum disease.
- Painful Chewing: Discomfort while chewing can indicate advanced gum disease.
- Loose or Shifting Teeth: As gum disease progresses and damages soft tissue, it can weaken the bone that holds teeth in place, leading to tooth mobility.
Our Personalized Periodontal Care Services
Guided Tissue Regeneration: A Path to Oral Healing
Guided tissue regeneration, a transformative dental procedure, operates like bone grafting with minimal donor tissue requirements. This technique employs specialized barrier membranes that direct the growth of fresh bone or gum tissue to precisely targeted areas within your oral cavity.
Preserving Your Socket for Future Dental Health
When a tooth is extracted, it leaves an empty gap in your jawbone susceptible to harmful bacteria and infection. Dr. Munro may recommend socket preservation to reinstate the natural contours of your jawbone and safeguard it against further degradation.
Elevating Your Dental Implant Success with a Sinus Lift
For individuals requiring dental implants in the upper jaw but lacking the requisite bone density, a sinus augmentation, or sinus lift, maybe in order. This intricate process entails grafting new bone material into the sinus cavities above your jaw. Sinus lift procedures help support your new dental restorations, ensuring long-term durability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does dental insurance cover the cost of periodontal care treatments?
The longevity of dental bonding can vary depending on various factors, such as oral hygiene practices, dietary habits, and the extent of wear and tear. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, dental bonding can last up to five to 10 years. Bonding material may require repair or replacement to maintain its optimal condition.
How can I treat gum disease at home?
While professional treatment is essential, you can support your gum health at home by maintaining good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and using an antiseptic mouthwash. For advanced gum health cases, it’s best to seek professional care.
Is gum disease reversible?
In its early stage, gingivitis, gum disease is reversible with proper oral hygiene and professional dental care. However, once it progresses to more advanced stages, the symptoms can only be managed, not reversed.
What is the most severe stage of gum disease?
Yes, dental crowns can be used to restore and protect decayed teeth. One of the primary purposes of dental crowns is to cover and strengthen damaged or weakened teeth, including those affected by decay.