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<\/p>\nGum disease describes bleeding, red, or swollen gums. It begins with hard and soft deposits on the surfaces of the teeth. If left untreated, bacterial build-up called plaque collects at the gum line. This plaque buildup eventually hardens into tartar or calculus.<\/p>\n
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When poor oral care is present, bacteria cause inflammation of the gums (gum disease \/ gingivitis). Over time, these bacteria can spread into the bone, resulting in a condition called periodontitis. Left treated, periodontal disease leads to the complete destruction of the tooth\u2019s supporting tissues, abscesses and, ultimately, loss of the tooth.<\/p>\n
Signs and Symptoms (Source: The Canadian Dental Hygienists Association)
\n\u25cf Red, swollen or tender gums
\n\u25cf Bleeding while brushing or flossing
\n\u25cf Gums that pull away from the teeth
\n\u25cf Persistent bad breath
\n\u25cf Loose or separating teeth
\n\u25cf A change in the way your teeth fit together<\/p>\n
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Periodontal examinations, also known as Gum Assessment, are done to assess the health of your gums and teeth. The results are used to diagnose gingivitis and periodontitis and are monitored yearly to track the progression and maintenance of your oral health.<\/p>\n
The area between the top of the tissue and the bone surrounding the tooth. This area is measured using a small ruler-type instrument called a probe. When infected, the tissue pulls away from the tooth and bleeds easily. Measuring pocket depth provides an indication as to the amount of bone loss around each tooth.<\/p>\n
Scaling, also knowns as “dental cleaning,” focuses on removing plaque, calculus, and stain from the tooth surface above and below the gum line.<\/p>\n
\u25cf After your gum assessment and x-rays are completed, we will diagnose your oral health condition. Your oral health status may require active therapy (ex. Moderate gingivitis, advanced periodontitis, moderate-heavy build-up of bacteria)
\n\u25cf An organized system for early detection, diagnosis, non-surgical treatment (scaling and root planing) and maintenance of the inflammatory phase of periodontal disease and for the early detection of premalignant or malignant changes of the oral tissues as related to oral cancer.
\n\u25cf Individualized treatment performed by a dentist and hygienist to reduce infection – including daily home care and maintenance recommendations.
\n\u25cf In combination with scaling and the use of medicaments to flush or irrigate the pocket areas allows for healthy reattachment of tissue to the root surfaces.<\/p>\n
\u25cf Gingival (gum) tissue that does not bleed
\n\u25cf Gingival tissue that is not red, swollen, or tender
\n\u25cf Fresher breath and taste
\n\u25cf Reduced pocket depths
\n\u25cf Control of the periodontal disease
\n\u25cf Established methods to effectively maintain good oral hygiene<\/p>\n
\u25cf Completion of the Active Therapy Program prescribed by your dentist and hygienist
\n\u25cf Thorough cleaning of all tooth surfaces twice daily
\n\u25cf Maintenance of regular recare visits
\n\u25cf A Commitment to improving your health<\/p>\n