Hygiene & Prevention

Gum Disease & Your Oral Health

Gum disease (or periodontal disease) is very common. Despite regular brushing and flossing, some people may still find they develop gum disease, which can become quite serious. You may require gum therapy treatment depending on the severity of the disease and what stage it is in when your dentist discovers it.

• Symptoms

  There are often no symptoms in the early stages of gum disease, making it difficult to detect. However, some of the symptoms you may experience include:

  • Sore and/or swollen gums
  • Discolouration in the gums (red or purple)
  • Gums that are receding
  • Bleeding gums
  • Persistent halitosis (bad breath)
• Diagnosis

  The diagnosis of gum disease involves measuring the depth of the pockets surrounding each tooth. Pockets that are 3mm or more in depth are at a point that requires treatment in most cases.

  Early detection is key to preventing more serious issues, which is why visiting your dentist regularly for dental hygiene and prevention is important.

• Treatment

  Bacteria and other materials that have formed in the pockets will need to be removed carefully from the gums. This removal process occurs at a microscopic level and demands a skilled professional. Our team has extensive experience and training on the most effective techniques to remove this bacteria.

  This procedure typically requires several appointments. After the bacteria has been completely removed, the pockets need to be cleaned and maintained regularly by your dentist to prevent bacteria from redeveloping and causing damage to the bone.

• Long-Term Care

  Unfortunately, once you have developed gum disease, you will always have it. It's essential that you continue with daily dental hygiene, including brushing and flossing, as well as regular visits to your dentist to keep the pockets free of bacteria and to prevent bone loss. After the initial treatment appointments, you will have a schedule for periodontal maintenance and prevention, which usually requires a visit every 3-4 months.