Gum Disease Treatment

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It is caused by a buildup of plaque and tartar along and beneath the gum line. When left untreated, gum disease can damage the bone supporting your teeth and eventually lead to tooth loss. According to the Canadian Dental Association, gum disease is one of the most common oral health conditions, affecting a significant portion of adults at some point in their lives.

At Redwater Dental Clinic in Redwater, AB, we take gum disease seriously. Our team provides thorough periodontal assessments and personalized treatment plans to help you protect your gums and keep your natural teeth for as long as possible. Whether you are experiencing early warning signs or have been diagnosed with more advanced periodontal disease, we are here to help.

Signs and Symptoms

Gum disease often develops gradually and can go unnoticed in its early stages. Many patients do not realize they have it until significant damage has occurred. Here are some of the most common signs to watch for:

• Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Gums that have pulled away from your teeth (recession)
• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite
• Pus between teeth and gums
• Pain when chewing

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact Redwater Dental Clinic at 780-942-4691 to schedule an assessment. Early detection is key to successful treatment.

Stages of Gum Disease

Gum disease progresses through two main stages, each with different characteristics and treatment approaches.

Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. At this point, the infection affects only the gums. You may notice redness, swelling, and bleeding when you brush or floss. The good news is that gingivitis is reversible with professional cleaning and improved home care. No permanent damage to the bone or connective tissue has occurred yet.

Periodontitis develops when gingivitis is left untreated. The infection spreads below the gum line, and the bacteria begin to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold your teeth in place. Pockets form between the teeth and gums, trapping more bacteria and making the condition worse. Periodontitis cannot be fully reversed, but it can be managed and controlled with proper treatment to prevent further bone loss and tooth loss.

In advanced cases, teeth may become loose or need to be removed. This is why regular checkups and professional cleanings at Redwater Dental Clinic are so important. We can identify gum disease early, before it reaches the advanced stages.

How We Treat Gum Disease

At Redwater Dental Clinic, our approach to gum disease treatment depends on the severity of your condition. We always start with the least invasive option and work closely with you to develop a treatment plan that fits your needs.

Scaling and Root Planing: This is the most common non-surgical treatment for gum disease. Scaling removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. Root planing smooths the root surfaces of your teeth, making it harder for bacteria to reattach. This deep cleaning is typically done under local anesthesia and may be completed in one or two visits, depending on the extent of the disease.

Antibiotic Therapy: In some cases, we may place localized antibiotics directly into the periodontal pockets after scaling and root planing. This helps eliminate remaining bacteria and promotes healing.

Ongoing Periodontal Maintenance: After your initial treatment, we will schedule more frequent cleaning appointments, typically every three to four months rather than the standard six months. These maintenance visits allow us to monitor your gum health, measure pocket depths, and remove any new buildup before it causes further damage.

Referral for Advanced Cases: If your gum disease has progressed significantly, we may refer you to a periodontist for specialized surgical treatment, such as flap surgery or bone grafting. Our team will coordinate your care and follow up to ensure the best outcome.

Can Gum Disease Be Reversed?

Gingivitis, the early stage, can be completely reversed with professional treatment and consistent oral hygiene at home. Once gum disease progresses to periodontitis, the damage to bone and tissue cannot be undone. However, with proper treatment and maintenance, periodontitis can be controlled and further damage can be prevented.

The earlier you seek treatment, the better your outcome will be. Patients who maintain regular visits to Redwater Dental Clinic and follow their home care instructions have the best long-term results. Our team will work with you every step of the way to keep your gums healthy and your smile intact.

Preventing Gum Disease

Prevention is always better than treatment. Here are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing gum disease:

• Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
• Floss daily to remove plaque from between teeth and below the gum line
• Visit Redwater Dental Clinic every six months for professional cleanings and exams
• Avoid smoking and tobacco use, which significantly increases your risk
• Eat a balanced diet and limit sugary snacks
• Manage health conditions like diabetes that can affect your gum health
• Replace your toothbrush every three to four months

If you have concerns about your gum health, do not wait. Call Redwater Dental Clinic at 780-942-4691 or request an appointment online. Early treatment can save your teeth and protect your overall health.