GUM DISEASE TREATMENT (Periodontal Therapy)

A prevalent disease

According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, gum disease, or clinically known as periodontal disease, is one of the most prevalent diseases that affects people of all ages. Their report for the years, 2007-2009 also states that periodontal disease and other dental issues can contribute to stroke, heart disease, and premature births. Children suffer from this oral disease more than other common childhood ailments such as asthma and hay fever.

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is a primary cause of tooth decay and loss. Bacteria forms on your teeth when you don’t floss and brush them on a regular basis. This bacteria then leads to gingivitis, which affects your gums. If you leave this untreated, your gums start to move away from the teeth creating space, or a pocket. Eventually the pockets become infected, weakening your jaw bone and your teeth, thus resulting in tooth loss.

Treatment

Fortunately, periodontal disease is also treatable and Dr. Ki and Dr. Allen apply non-surgical methods first to restore your gums’ health. When you come into our office, the first thing our hygienist will do is make a map of your gums, showing where the deepest pockets are. Then, the hygienist consults with the dentist and a program is put together for you to help you build up your gums at home through regular flossing, brushing, and other therapy.

In most cases, our patients are able to avoid having gum surgery done, which can be a costly treatment. By working together with our staff, you can address your periodontal disease with non-invasive therapy and prevent decay from occurring, extending the life and health of your teeth.