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Periodontics
Effective Periodontal Care for Gingivitis (Gum Disease) in Hamilton
Gingivitis is the beginning stage of what is called, “gum disease,” and is treatable if detected. It is usually caused by plaque (bacteria and food) buildup on the teeth. However, if it is left untreated, it may turn into an infection of the supporting structures of the teeth, which is known as periodontal disease (or Periodontitis). This happens when the bacteria travel down the tooth surface under the gums, and onto the roots. This is a more permanent condition that requires more involved treatment, and if it is left untreated, it may lead to bone loss and eventual tooth loss.
At Olivieri Dental Care in Hamilton, we recommend patient-specific oral hygiene maintenance programs to prevent and control gingivitis and periodontal disease and maintain oral health. If we find that you have periodontitis, we have surgical and non-surgical treatment options, including laser gum therapy, which is used in appropriate cases to address your condition. Contact us for professional gum disease treatment in Hamilton and schedule your care today.
What Is Gingivitis, and What Are Its Symptoms?
Gingivitis is an early form of gum disease. It occurs when plaque builds up on your teeth along the gum line, and the gums become inflamed and bleed.
Bleeding gums are a common sign of gingivitis, along with:
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Gum tenderness
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Redness
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Swelling or puffiness
Gingivitis (gum disease) usually doesn't cause pain, but it is important to address it early. Contact our dental clinic today to learn more about effective gingivitis treatments in Hamilton.
How Can Gingivitis Be Prevented?
Effective prevention of gingivitis involves consistent oral hygiene practices and lifestyle habits:
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Regular brushing: Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a fluoride-containing toothpaste.
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Daily flossing: Flossing removes plaque and food particles between teeth where a toothbrush cannot reach.
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Professional dental cleanings: Regular check-ups and cleanings by a dental professional help remove plaque (a thick film of bacteria and broken-down food particles), and calcified plaque (called “calculus”, or “tartar”, which cannot be brushed off) and detect early signs of gum disease.
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Healthy lifestyle habits: A balanced diet, avoiding tobacco, and managing stress contribute to overall gum health.
How Do You Treat Periodontitis?
Non-surgical Treatments
Non-surgical treatments, which are generally less invasive and more affordable than surgical options, are highly effective and used initially for most mild and moderate stages of periodontitis.
Dental Scaling and Root Planing
Dental scaling and root planing is a non-surgical procedures aimed at treating moderate to advanced gum disease. It involves:
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Scaling: Removing plaque and tartar from the gum line and above and below the gum line.
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Root planing: Removes plaque and tartar from the below the gum line, returning the roots to their original smoothness, allowing the gums to reattach to the roots.
A deep cleaning, which is Root Planing, removes plaque and calcified plaque from around the teeth under the gums, as well as removing the tartar build-up on the root surfaces deep under the gums. This returns the root to its formerly smooth shape, so the gums can reattach to the root.This procedure helps eliminate bacteria, reduce inflammation, and prevent further progression of gum disease. Local anesthesia may be used to minimize discomfort, and follow-up care ensures long-term effectiveness.
In addition to scaling and root planing, the following therapies may be utilized to enhance periodontal treatment outcomes.
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Medication: Can be prescribed as a pill or mouth rinse to reduce inflammation and control bacterial infection.
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Antimicrobial mouthwash: Contains agents that can reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.
Surgical Treatments
Surgical treatments may be necessary for moderate to severe periodontitis, or mild periodontitis that doesn’t resolve with non-surgical treatment:
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Pocket reduction surgery: Pocket reduction surgery, also known as osseous surgery, is performed to treat moderate to advanced periodontitis when the infection irreversibly damages the bone around the teeth. This treatment removes the source of the infection and recontours the gums and the bone around the teeth to allow for optimal healing and minimize the chances of the infection returning.
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Bone Grafting & Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR): A dental bone graft can replace bone lost to periodontitis. It is also used when the only option to save the tooth/teeth is to repair the damaged bone.
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Gum grafting: Gum grafting, or tissue grafting, is used to restore gum tissue that has been lost due to gum recession, typically a consequence of bone loss. This treatment acts to provide more stability to the tooth, and protection against future cavities on the root surfaces and future bone loss.
We support finance and insurance policies; please contact us for professional periodontal treatment for gum disease care in Hamilton. We also offer emergency dentistry services to address urgent oral health issues promptly and effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Gingivitis Be Reversed?
Yes, gingivitis can often be reversed with consistent oral hygiene practices, including proper brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings. Early intervention is crucial in preventing the progression to advanced gum disease.
What Happens If Gingivitis Is Left Untreated?
Untreated gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, causing deeper gum pockets, loss of connective tissue and bone, and eventually tooth mobility or tooth loss. Prompt treatment helps prevent these complications.
Can Young People Develop Gum Disease?
Yes, young individuals can develop gum disease, particularly if oral hygiene is inadequate. Early intervention and regular dental visits are crucial in preventing long-term damage.
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