Periodontal (Gum) Treatments

Healthy gums are essential to a healthy body and smile.

With the comprehensive gum treatments we offer at Melville Family Dental, we can help you get your periodontal health in check, gently and with supportive follow-up care.

The Oral-Systemic Connection

Bleeding gums, sensitivity, gum recession and bone loss put teeth at risk. The effects of gum disease impact more than just your mouth.

Research links periodontal health to systemic diseases:

• Premature births and low-weight births in babies born to women with periodontal disease
• Diabetes complications
• Respiratory diseases
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Increased risk of cancer

The profound impact of periodontal disease on the whole body makes the effective treatment and control of oral infection a priority. Our dental hygienists are thorough and gentle, and they provide a wealth of information for healthy gums and fresh breath.

Causes of Periodontal Disease

Inadequate home or professional dental care is the most common cause of periodontal disease. Some health conditions and medications also contribute to an increased risk of gum disease, including anti-seizure medication and those causing dry mouth as a side effect.

Smoking and tobacco use reduces saliva production and introduces toxins into delicate gum tissue. Smoking cessation improves oral health and reduces the risk of oral cancer.

Periodontal Evaluation

Vigilance and early detection through periodontal evaluation allow us to begin gum treatment at the first sign of infection. Healthy gums cling to teeth snugly and have a healthy pink colour and no bleeding points.

A visual exam for bleeding, recession and measurements of pockets between the gum tissue and teeth will alert our hygienists of signs of infection. You may hear us describe the measurements we take between the teeth and gums; one, two or three millimetres are healthy numbers. Four and above indicate periodontal pocketing.

Periodontal Disease Symptoms 

Early gum disease, called gingivitis, presents few symptoms in its earliest stages. Signs to look for include:

• Bleeding, tender gums
• Sensitivity
• Mild pain when brushing and flossing
• Tingling or burning sensations

When detected early, periodontal disease is often reversible with improved home care and individualised professional dental cleanings.

As gum disease progresses into periodontitis, symptoms often become more dramatic, including:

• Bad breath
• Tooth mobility
• Deep pocketing
• Recession
• Significant pain and bleeding
• Pus at the gumline

An advanced periodontal infection requires a regular maintenance programme to prevent tooth loss. Advanced dental cleanings to remove tartar from teeth and beneath the gumline will promote healing. In some cases, hygienists may place antibiotic medication beneath the gums to assist in healing deep pockets.

Periodontal Maintenance Programme

Six-month dental cleans are typically enough to keep healthy patients disease-free. After periodontal treatments, more frequent dental cleanings every three or four months can keep your gums healthy and prevent reinfection.

Healthy Gums Are a Phone Call Away

Take the first step toward healthy gums and improved overall wellness. Melville Family Dental welcomes new patients and looks forward to helping you and your family achieve excellent health and beautiful smiles.