At Hermitage Dental Clinic in Edmonton, we believe that healthy gums are just as important as strong teeth. Our restorative dental care addresses the effects of periodontal disease, restoring gum health and function. Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a common condition that affects the gums and the tissues that support your teeth.
If left untreated, it can lead to serious problems, including tooth loss. That’s why we offer comprehensive periodontal disease treatment to help you maintain healthy gums and prevent further complications.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease begins with gingivitis, which is the earliest stage of gum disease. It often starts when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on your teeth and gums. If plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which irritates and inflames the gums. This can lead to symptoms like red, swollen gums that may bleed when you brush or floss.
If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease. In periodontitis, the inflammation extends deeper into the supporting structures of the teeth, including the bone. This can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that can become infected. Over time, periodontitis can lead to gum recession, tooth mobility, and even tooth loss.
How We Treat Periodontal Disease
At Hermitage Dental Clinic, we offer a range of treatments to address periodontal disease and help you restore your gum health. The first step in treatment is to thoroughly clean your teeth and gums to remove plaque and tartar buildup. This process is known as scaling and root planing. During scaling, we use special instruments to clean below the gum line, removing plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces. Root planing involves smoothing the roots of the teeth to help the gums reattach and heal.
In addition to scaling and root planing, Dr. Uppal may use antimicrobial treatments to reduce bacteria and inflammation in the gums. These treatments can help control the infection and promote healing. If you have more advanced periodontal disease, we may recommend surgical options to restore gum health and address any damage to the supporting bone. These procedures can help reduce the depth of gum pockets and regenerate lost tissue.
Maintaining Gum Health
Preventing periodontal disease from returning is crucial for maintaining your overall oral health. To keep your gums healthy, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene at home. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily to remove plaque from between your teeth and under the gumline.
Regular dental checkups are also essential for monitoring your gum health and catching any issues early. During your visits to Hermitage Dental Clinic, we will examine your gums for signs of gum disease and provide professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar that you may have missed at home. We’ll also offer personalized advice on how to improve your oral hygiene routine and prevent gum disease.
The Impact of Gum Disease on Your Overall Health
Maintaining healthy gums is not only important for your oral health but also for your overall well-being. Research has shown that gum disease can be linked to other health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory problems. By keeping your gums healthy, you’re also taking steps to protect your overall health and reduce your risk of these serious conditions.
Get the Care You Need at Hermitage Dental Clinic
If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease or have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, the team at Hermitage Dental Clinic is here to help. We provide gentle and effective treatments to address gum disease and restore your oral health. Our goal is to help you achieve healthy gums and maintain a beautiful, functional smile.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our periodontal disease treatment options. Let us help you keep your gums healthy and your smile bright with the expert care and personalized attention you deserve.