Protect Your Smile at Parkview Dental

Are your gums tender, swollen, or bleeding when you brush? These could be early warning signs of gum disease, a condition that, if left untreated, can lead to serious oral health issues and even tooth loss. At Parkview Dental in Pembroke, ON, Dr. James Munro and our experienced team are dedicated to providing comprehensive periodontal care tailored to your unique needs.

Don’t wait until gum disease threatens your oral health. Take the first step towards a healthier smile today by calling Parkview Dental at (613) 735-2336 to schedule your comprehensive periodontal evaluation. Our Pembroke, ON dental team is ready to answer your questions and help you achieve optimal gum health.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues surrounding and supporting your teeth. It typically begins as gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease, and can progress to more severe stages if left untreated.

Symptoms of Gum Disease

Common signs of gum disease include:

• Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Receding gums
• Painful chewing
• Loose or shifting teeth

If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait. Contact our Pembroke dental practice immediately for an evaluation.

Causes of Gum Disease

Several factors can contribute to gum disease, including:

• Poor oral hygiene
• Tobacco use
• Genetic predisposition
• Certain health conditions (e.g., diabetes, HIV)
• Some medications
• Poor nutrition

Stages of Gum Disease:

Gingivitis

The earliest stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis. During gingivitis, plaque and bacteria accumulate, causing mild gum inflammation. You may also notice bleeding when brushing or flossing. At this stage, the condition can usually be reversed with thorough professional cleaning and improved home care.

Early Periodontitis

If untreated, gingivitis can progress to early periodontitis. At this stage, pockets begin to form between the gums and teeth. Some bone loss may occur, and gums may start to recede and bleed more frequently. Treatment usually involves scaling and root planing to remove bacteria from below the gum line.

Moderate Periodontitis

As gum disease progresses, more significant changes occur: 

• Gum pockets deepen, allowing more bacteria to collect 
• Moderate bone loss becomes evident
• Gum recession becomes more noticeable
• Loose teeth
• Bad breath becomes persistent 

Moderate periodontitis requires more intensive treatments, potentially including localized antibiotics or more advanced cleaning procedures.

Advanced Periodontitis

Advanced periodontitis is the most severe stage of gum disease. Without intervention, it can lead to tooth loss. Severe bone loss (50% or more) occurs, and gum pockets begin to exceed 6mm in depth. Teeth become very loose or shift position. Painful abscesses may form in the mouth, making chewing difficult and painful. Treatment at this stage often involves surgical interventions such as flap surgery or bone and tissue grafts. In some cases, tooth extraction may be necessary.

Gum Disease Treatment

There are a range of periodontal care services to address gum disease at every stage:

1. Professional Dental Cleanings: Regular cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
2. Scaling and Root Planing: Deep cleaning below the gumline to remove bacteria and smooth root surfaces.
3. Antibiotic Therapy: Targeted medication to control bacterial infection.
4. Guided Tissue Regeneration: Advanced technique to stimulate new bone and gum tissue growth.
5. Socket Preservation: Procedure to maintain jawbone structure after tooth extraction.
6. Sinus Lift: Bone graft to support dental implants in the upper jaw.
7. Ongoing Maintenance: Customized care plans to prevent gum disease recurrence.

Preventing Gum Disease

Maintain excellent dental health with these tips:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
• Use an antimicrobial mouthwash
• Eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet
• Avoid tobacco products
• Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings