Medicine Hat Dentist - Sameet Gill

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/11/13/medicine-hat-dentist-sameet-gill-3/

Periodontitis

The first signs of periodontal disease usually begin with gingivitis; the gums appear reddened at the margins, slightly swollen and bleed when gently provoked by tooth brushing or flossing. It is often thought that brushing too hard causes bleeding gums - however, bleeding from the gum tissues is not normal and should be taken as a warning sign.

Bad breath and taste are also commonly associated with periodontal disease. As the disease progresses the gum tissues begin to recede, exposing root surfaces which may cause tooth sensitivity to temperature and pressure change. Gum tissues may start to lose their normally tight attachment to the tooth causing pocket formation, detectable by a dentist during periodontal probing. As pocket formation progresses, supporting bone loss may be noted around the teeth.

Abscess formation, the collection of pus pockets denoted by pain, swelling and discharge from the gum tissues is a later sign of disease. Ultimately looseness and drifting of teeth occur as bone is lost in more advanced degrees of disease and may also be apparent as eating becomes more difficult or uncomfortable.

Treating Periodontal Disease - What to Expect

Should you encounter periodontal disease, here are some of the aspects of treatment you should expect:

Behavior Change: One of the first things your dentist will recommend as a part of treatment for periodontal disease is a behavior change on your part. Since dental plaque is the main cause of periodontal disease, its removal on a daily basis is essential. For many patients this involves forming new oral hygiene habits, along with cessation of smoking and other lifestyle changes. Consistent behavior change is the most important element in maintaining long term periodontal health, since daily plaque removal in large part will set the stage for sustained, successful treatment.

Calculus (Tartar) Removal: Cleaning however, isn't all on your shoulders - your dentist will also see that your teeth receive a thorough cleaning in his or her office to quickly remove the deposits of calcified plaque called calculus or tartar and other bacterial toxins which become ingrained into the root surfaces. This process of mechanical cleaning is generally known as scaling and root planing using ultrasonic and hand scaling instruments. It may be carried out by a hygienist, a dentist or a periodontist, and sometimes requires local anesthesia. Scaling usually results in little or no pain, although in rare instances a patient may need mild pain medication for a day or two.

Evaluation: After three or four weeks your dentist will evaluate the response of your gingival tissues to the initial therapy. In early or mild cases the healing response may be good enough to return an individual to periodontal health. Your dentist will probably recommend a regular schedule of office checkups and cleanings to maintain this healthy state.

Vigilance Can Make the Difference

If you have periodontal disease all is not lost. Remember, your teeth were meant to last a life time. Early diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease are also essential in keeping your teeth for life.

While periodontal disease is treatable, vigilance is necessary to prevent recurrence: institute daily plaque removal through brushing and flossing as a part of your oral hygiene; seek treatment to quit smoking; and establish a regular schedule of clinical cleanings and checkups.