Periodontal Prevention and Care in Richmond Hill & Thornhill

Periodontitis is a gum disease that damages the gums, ligaments and bone structure that support your teeth. It is caused by a bacterial infection associated with plaque. Plaque is that clear sticky substance that builds throughout the day on your teeth which is removed with regular brushing and flossing. Plaque that isn't cleaned off through brushing and flossing hardens into tartar which must be removed by a dentist through 'scaling'.

When tartar remains on teeth, it fosters infection beneath the gum line. Over time, this bacterial infection can lead to gum detachment from your teeth, creating 'pockets' where further infection thrives. This process results in gum tissue recession, pain, loose and damaged teeth, persistent bad breath, and even tooth loss.

Periodontitis can be treated but the earlier it is detected the better.

The early stage of periodontal disease is gingivitis. Gingivitis is extremely common and usually defined by mild gum irritation, minor bleeding during regular brushing and flossing, and occasional bad breath caused by the gum infection. Gingivitis is caused by bacteria from plaque under the gum line. Gingivitis is controllable and treatable with regular brushing and routine dental visits for a thorough cleaning.

Gingivitis left untreated can spread to the bone structure that supports your teeth. This is where periodontal disease sets in. As the infection progresses, 'pockets' are formed between your tooth and gum, allowing tartar, bacteria and infection to accumulate and damage the underlying bone. As the periodontitis advances, the 'pockets' deepen allowing the infection to worsen.

Moderate periodontitis occurs as the 'pocket' deepens down to the root, and the gum separates further from the tooth. It is often noticeably receded and tender and the bone holding the tooth in place may be up to 1/3 lost. When advancing takes place, bone destruction will continue and the tooth will loosen up, possibly to the point of falling out.

What to look for:

• Teeth that are loose in an adult
• Gums that are tender, sensitive or even painful to the touch
• Gums that are swollen
• Gums that appear shiny or bright red (like in many infections)
• Gums that bleed during normal (even gentle) brushing and flossing
• Teeth that appear unusually long (due to receded gum)
• Gums that are receding
• Frequent or continuous bad breath
• Overall discomfort in the mouth

If you are in the Thornhill or Richmond Hill area and are experiencing symptoms of periodontitis, contact us today so we can help restore your oral health!