Biological Periodontology
Using a Healthy Approach to
Treating Periodontal Disease
One of the most common reasons for tooth loss is the onset of periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. Fortunately, gum disease is treatable and preventable.
As part of your oral care here at Georgian Dental®Click to open in this tab, regular checkups will include examinations for signs of periodontal disease, and recommendations for the necessary treatments to keep your mouth healthy.
Using our unique method of dental care, we will also evaluate the various elements of your health and lifestyle that can contribute to the development of gum disease, and offer guidance and advice on how to make simple changes to improve your overall state of health and well-being.
Signs and Symptoms of
Periodontal Disease
Through regular brushing and flossing of your teeth and gums, bacteria and plaque are scrubbed away, leaving your mouth clean, fresh, and healthy. However, if this bacteria and plaque are allowed to build up, it can start to produce toxins that have negative health effects on your gums. As the plaque accumulates, it begins to push the gums away from the teeth just below the gum line.
Initial signs and symptoms include red and swollen gums, which may bleed easily. At this stage, the condition is known as gingivitis and is often treatable with a more diligent brushing and flossing routine.
If left unchecked, gingivitis develops into periodontitis, which is when more serious health complications can arise. These can include damage to the gums or bone supporting the teeth, as well as loose teeth that may even fall out if the condition is not treated and reversed.
Because the initial signs of gum disease are difficult to see without closer examination, many patients don’t know they are developing the condition until they have a checkup that looks for these factors. This is why regular checkups are essential in the prevention and treatment of periodontal disease.
However, if you notice that your gums are becoming increasingly sensitive, red, swollen, or more prone to bleeding, you should book an appointment as soon as possible for an examination. Other common symptoms of gum disease include:
Additional Risk Factors to Be Aware Of
Although the leading cause of gingivitis and periodontitis is poor or irregular oral care habits, there are other factors that could place you at higher risk of developing these conditions. It’s important to be aware of these factors, as many of them carry other health risks as well.
As part of our approach to your care, Georgian Dental® considers all of these factors when evaluating your dental health and determining the best treatment options.
Other Risk Factors for Gum Disease
What Are My Options for Treating Gum Disease?
There are several methods for treating gum disease depending on the progression of the condition and the needs of the patient.
In many instances, non-surgical options such as at-home periodontal trays, as well as deep-cleaning scaling and root planing treatments performed by our team of dental hygienists, will stop gum disease from progressing and get your oral health back to normal.
For more advanced cases, treatment options can include laser gum surgery and periodontal surgery.
Introducing OraVital BiofilmDNA Testing
Georgian Dental® is pleased to introduce the use of BiofilmDNA testing in our clinics to help us make better diagnoses and treatment plans for conditions, including:
