Gum Care
Severe gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Hence the importance of caring for this vulnerable tissue. Gums are prone to developing inflammation (gingivitis), or even deeper infection (periodontitis), with far-reaching consequences. At Le Dentiste, we offer preventive and curative gum care to control these infections and prevent them from developing.
The Gum: a Vulnerable Tissue
The gum is the pink tissue that covers the jawbone to protect it from external aggression.
It is also part of the periodontium, the set of tooth-supporting structures comprising cementum, periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. Its external position therefore exposes it directly to the action of bacteria, notably those found in plaque and tartar (more or less hard deposits that accumulate at the base of the teeth). This makes it vulnerable to deeper inflammation and disease. A diet rich in sugar and acids, smoking, low salivation (xerostomia) and poor oral hygiene also contribute to plaque and tartar build-up, increasing the risk of gum disease.
Controlling Plaque and Tartar to Care for Your Gums
The best way to prevent gingivitis and then periodontitis is to control plaque and tartar build-up. That's why, in the case of mild to moderate inflammation, a cleaning, including scaling, is recommended. Root planing, performed to treat periodontitis, is also a form of cleaning. During this operation, performed under local anaesthetic, the dentist lifts the gums to remove plaque and tartar from the roots. This removes periodontal pockets and allows the gums to regain their full health and functionality.
If we detect gum disease, our dentists in LaSalle, Pointe-aux-Trembles, Mercier-Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, Châteauguay and Town of Mount Royal will suggest a root cleaning or root planing to treat it and avoid many complications!
Diseases to Watch Out For
- Gingivitis: This is a mild to moderate inflammation that can be seen bleeding during oral hygiene routine, especially when flossing. It can also cause redness and slight localized swelling. Gingivitis is quite common, but is easily treated if detected early. Cleaning, including careful scaling, and good hygiene habits are usually enough to keep it under control. Antibiotic treatment may also be prescribed.
- Periodontitis: This deep-seated infection, generally resulting from the aggravation of poorly managed gingivitis, can be seen in more persistent bleeding during hygiene routines, redness and swelling, as well as chronic bad breath, gingival recession and fever. It is also characterized by the presence of periodontal pockets, i.e. bacterial clusters leading to gingival detachment. To treat it, we can perform root planing, i.e. cleaning the space beneath the gums. If left untreated, it can lead to alveolar bone degradation and tooth loss. Periodontitis is also linked to general health conditions such as diabetes and heart, digestive, liver or kidney disorders.
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