Did you know that one of the most common causes of lost teeth is gum disease? Gum disease can be a serious condition that affects the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. 

If severe enough, teeth will easily fall out, can cause an oral infection, and bad breath can become constant. However, there are many treatment options available on the market. Weston Dental Office has put this guideline together to outline and define what gum disease is, why it occurs, and how to treat it. 

What is Gum Disease & Why Does it Occur? 

There are a variety of reasons that gum disease can occur. However, the most common reason is poor dental hygiene. When teeth are neglected and not brushed often, oral bacteria will begin to grow a substance known as plaque. If not brushed away, plaque will turn into a harder substance known as tartar. Tartar requires the help of a professional dentist for removal as it builds up around the base of the teeth appearing yellow or white, and it is difficult to remove. Tartar will irritate and inflame the gums and if left, will become diseased. This leads to the first stage of gum disease known as gingivitis.  

If gingivitis is left untreated, a more severe form of gum disease will occur known as periodontitis. This severe stage can lead to tooth loss, lack of tooth mobility, and be connected to conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Common signs include: swollen or bleeding gums, receding gums, bad breath, and changes in the spaces of teeth. 

Gum Disease Treatment Options 

Treatment options for gum disease will depend on how severe it is. An effective option for those suffering from gingivitis includes a typical gum cleaning appointment. The tartar build up will most likely be at the base of the teeth if not under the teeth and it’s important to get in these crevices to remove them. Without proper brushing and flossing, tartar and bacteria will only continue to grow. Therefore, a professional dentist will need to use a special tool along with a small jet of water to remove the excess tartar, plaque, and food particles. 

If one’s gum disease is more severe than gingivitis, the gums will likely begin to recede and some portion of the gums may die. If this is the case, laser treatment will be needed to remove the dead gum tissue. The rate of infection is low with this style of treatment as the laser will only cauterize the gum tissue so that no bleeding occurs. 

Contact Our Trusted Dental Office 

Prevention and early intervention are crucial when it comes to managing gum disease. Weston Dental Office provides General Dentistry in Toronto and our clinic urges everyone to attend regular dental checkups, professional cleanings, and keep up with a consistent oral hygiene routine. These processes can help to prevent and control gum disease. If you are noticing any alarming signs with your teeth, it’s best that you give our trusted dental office a call today at 416-247-1928 to book an appointment.