Periodontal Treatment in West Edmonton, AB

What’s the Difference Between Gingivitis and Periodontitis?

Gingivitis is a mild form of common periodontitis (gum disease). During the beginning stages of gingivitis, the bacteria found in plaque buildup causes gum inflammation, and the gums may bleed easily when you brush your teeth. Despite gum irritation, the teeth remain firmly planted in their sockets.

Irreversible bone or tissue damage will not occur during this stage. If left untreated, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis. In terms of periodontitis, the inner layer of the gum and bone will pull away (recede) from the teeth and form pockets.

Debris can collect in these spaces between the teeth and gums, causing an infection. The pockets deepen and destroy gum tissue and bone when the disease progresses. The teeth will begin to loosen from their sockets, and tooth loss can occur.

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What Causes Gum Disease Near You?

Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, but what causes it? Despite plaque being the primary cause of gum disease, several other factors can contribute to gum disease. These factors include hormonal changes, illnesses, specific medication, unhealthy habits, poor oral hygiene, and genetics.

Regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings are all effective oral hygiene practices that help to prevent gum disease. Additionally, avoiding risk factors like smoking, eating a well-balanced diet, and managing systemic conditions like diabetes can help reduce the likelihood of developing this condition. Early detection and treatment of gum disease is essential to preventing further damage to the gums and surrounding structures, highlighting the importance of regular dental check-ups for maintaining oral health.

Diagnosing Gum Disease

When you visit our dentist near you for a routine checkup, they will look for the following:

  • Gum abnormalities include swelling, firmness, and pocket depth (the space between your gum and tooth). The pocket size and depth will determine the disease’s severity.
  • Teeth movement and correct alignment.
  • Adequate jaw bone density.

Maintaining routine dental checkups allows your dentist to detect and address issues as soon as possible. This can reduce your chances of requiring gum disease treatment in West Edmonton, AB.

What are The Symptoms of Gum Disease?

Only our periodontist in West Edmonton, AB, can diagnose and determine the progression of gum disease.

Gum disease may progress gradually and with very few visible signs, even once you reach the late stages. It is essential to recognize these symptoms of gum disease, which include:

  • Red and bloody gums
  • Swollen and tender gums
  • Persistent bath breath or a bad taste in your mouth
  • Gum recession
  • Deep pockets between your teeth and gums
  • Loose or shifting teeth
  • Changes in your bite
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How is Gum Disease Treated?

If you’re looking to receive periodontal treatment in West Edmonton, AB T6M 1G9, it will depend on your overall health, the stage of the gum disease, and your response to earlier treatments. We provide periodontal treatment near you that may entail nonsurgical therapies and surgical procedures.

Preventing Gum Disease

Although gum disease can be attributed to irreversible risks such as tooth loss, the disease can be reversed. You have the power to stop the progression of gum disease in virtually all cases when you practice proper plaque control.

This consists of biannual professional dental cleanings, daily brushing and flossing. Brushing your teeth eliminates plaque from the surfaces of your teeth that can be reached with a toothbrush. Flossing removes plaque and food particles between your teeth and under your gum line.

Using an antibacterial mouthwash can also minimize bacteria responsible for causing plaque and gum disease. Taking the above oral hygiene measures will not only prevent gum disease but also prevent the need for gum disease treatment near you.

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