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Periodontics (Gum Surgery)
Trusted Periodontics in Coquitlam
At Coquitlam Centre Dental Clinic, our care team includes dentists trained to prevent and treat gum disease and maintain a comfortable smile structure. They are dedicated to helping you develop a care regimen to prevent gum disease and treat the health of your mouth with gentle care.
You have probably heard of gum disease and gingivitis. Gingivitis can lead to advanced gum disease and can cause damage to your smile. Call us today to book an appointment for periodontics treatment in Coquitlam.
Gingivitis (Gum Disease)
Gingivitis is a bacterial infection of the mouth's tissues and a potential precursor of gum disease. Once gum disease sets in, the toxins the bacteria produce damage the teeth's connective tissue and bone, effectively destroying them and fostering tooth loss.
If treated with adequate dental care, it is reversible. If ignored, it can lead to a more serious and advanced form of gum disease called periodontitis, damage to tissue and bone, and tooth loss.
Periodontitis (Advanced Gum Disease)
This advanced gum disease destroys structures supporting the teeth, including the bone. This causes teeth to loosen, requiring their removal. The signs of the condition are red, swollen, bleeding gums that shrink away from the teeth. The resulting widening spaces between the teeth and exposed root surfaces are highly vulnerable to decay.
The Signs of Gum Disease
As a gum infection progresses, the bone tends to recede; the gums may or may not. Sometimes, the tooth's root becomes exposed, occasionally causing tooth sensitivity. Furthermore, pus may be produced, and pockets may form between the gum and tooth.
Since bone recession is not visible to the naked eye and, if left undetected, may contribute to tooth loss, it is essential to visit your Coquitlam Centre Dental Clinic dentist for professional examinations and dental cleanings to identify gum disease.
What to Look For:
Bleeding gums during tooth brushing or otherwise.
Sensitive, red or swollen gums.
Bad breath.
Teeth that are loose or appear to have shifted.
Causes of Gum Disease
There are several causes of gum disease, each of which can be corrected and controlled. The causes of gum disease include:
Improper Dental Hygiene:
If plaque is not removed through daily dental hygiene practices and regular professional dental cleanings, bacteria may set in and cause gingivitis, eventually resulting in gum disease.
Organic Changes in the Mouth:
Changes in metabolism and hormone levels during pregnancy, puberty, and menopause may affect the organic balance in the mouth and make teeth more susceptible to gum disease.
Medical Conditions:
Severe conditions that affect the body's ability to produce sugar (such as diabetes or kidney disease) may contribute to periodontal disease. Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control has found an association between certain illnesses (including diabetes, stroke and heart attack) and gum disease. Finally, medications used to treat medical conditions may produce the overgrowth of gums. Overgrown gums are more susceptible to bacteria and, therefore, gum disease.
Saliva Flow Inhibitors:
Certain medications that produce oral side effects or dry mouth syndrome (xerostomia) may reduce protective saliva flow and potentially lead to gum disease. Seniors may be more susceptible to dry mouth syndrome because of the natural reduction of salivary flow associated with age.
Poor Functional Habits:
Teeth grinding or clenching may impair the surrounding tissue and is a possible contributor to gum disease.
Gum treatment:
Gum treatment involves many different procedures depending on the severity of the gum (periodontal) problem. It includes cleaning teeth and roots, surgery, grafting, or reshaping the gums. It also includes specific training on diet and dental care regimens for the most significant benefit to the health of your gums and mouth.
When Periodontal Surgery Is Needed?
Periodontal surgery is recommended when non-surgical treatments, such as scaling and root planing, are insufficient to manage gum disease. At Coquitlam Centre Dental Clinic, our team endeavours to provide appropriate treatment options for patients requiring periodontics in Coquitlam. Periodontal surgery may be necessary to address advanced gum disease, prevent further damage, and improve oral health.
Gum disease, or periodontitis, occurs when bacteria accumulate beneath the gum line, leading to inflammation, gum recession, and potential bone loss. If left untreated, it can result in tooth mobility or loss. Common reasons for periodontal surgery include:
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Deep pockets between teeth and gums: When periodontal pockets become too deep for regular cleaning, bacteria can accumulate, leading to further infection. Surgery can reduce pocket depth and facilitate better oral hygiene.
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Gum recession: Exposed tooth roots can cause sensitivity and an increased risk of decay. Soft tissue grafting is a surgical procedure to restore gum tissue and protect teeth.
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Bone loss: Advanced periodontitis can lead to bone deterioration. Regenerative procedures like bone grafts may help restore lost bone and support the surrounding structures.
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Tooth loss: Dental implants may be an option if a tooth is lost due to periodontitis. In such cases, periodontal surgery may be required to prepare the site for implant placement.
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Cosmetic or functional concerns: Periodontal surgery may sometimes correct a gummy smile or prepare the mouth for restorative treatments.
Our team strives to assess each patient's condition and recommend the most appropriate action. Periodontal surgery uses advanced techniques to improve patient outcomes and promote long-term oral health. Contact us today for more information or to book a consultation. Our team can assist you with any questions regarding periodontal treatment options.
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