Location

980 Yonge Street
Toronto, ON, M4W
Fax: 416.324.8101
Email: info@belmontdental.ca

Preventive Dentistry

Gum Disease

Gum disease affects most people at some time during their life. It is usually caused by a build-up of plaque on teeth. One of the most common signs of gum disease is bleeding gums. Meticulous cleaning of your teeth each day can help prevent gum disease. Getting treatment for dental problems early can help save teeth that are at risk from gum disease and other conditions. Speak to your dentist or your hygienist if you have swollen or bleeding gums or loose teeth.

The different stages of gum disease

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is early gum disease and occurs when dental plaque builds up on teeth, particularly where the gum joins the tooth. The signs of gingivitis are bleeding, redness and swelling of the gums.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is an advanced gum disease that may occur if gingivitis is not treated. The gum margin – the part of the gum that seals to the tooth – is weakened. Bacteria and their products cause more inflammation (redness and swelling) in the parts of the mouth that sit below the gum margin. These structures include the covering of the tooth root (cementum), the bone and the fibres that connect the cementum to the bone (periodontal ligament).

As the disease progresses and bone is lost, spaces begin to form between the tooth and the gum. These spaces are called ‘periodontal pockets’. Signs of periodontitis include bleeding, swelling and receding gums together with bad breath, a bad taste in the mouth and loose teeth.

How is Periodontal Disease Treated?

In the early stages of periodontal disease we can use deep cleaning to remove the hardened plaque and infected tissue, then smooth the damaged root surfaces of the teeth. This process allows the gum to heal. An antibiotic rinse may also be applied to help control the infection. Once a deep cleaning has been performed, it is imperative that the individual maintains a regular brushing and flossing schedule to keep the plaque from building up again. If periodontitis is far too advanced Laser Periodontal Therapy may be necessary.