Gum Disease Prevention

Gum Disease Prevention

What is Gum Disease? 

Gum disease, or also known as periodontal disease, destroys the gums and bone structure that support the teeth. Gum disease is caused by the bacterial infection related to plaque buildup. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults in Canada. 

How Can I Prevent Gum Disease? 

In many cases, gum disease can be prevented with a good oral hygiene routine. This includes brushing daily and flossing at least once a day. Regular visits to the dentist can also prevent gum disease. At South 40 Dental Sexsmith, we provide patients with an at home dental routine to prevent you from this disease. We also provide biopsy for teeth and gums to determine any signs of oral cancer. 

If you have unexplained lesions in your mouth, they need to be examined by a dentist. They may or may not be cancerous, but they need medical attention nonetheless.

What Are Some Symptoms of Gum Disease?

• Tender Gums
• Swollen Gums
• Bleeding gums while brushing your teeth gently 
• Continous bad breath
• Loose adult teeth
• Receding gums
• Teeth with extreme plaque build-up along the visible gum line
• Overall discomfort in the mouth

Scaling & Root Planing

Our office in Sexsmith, Alberta provides scaling and root planing treatment to patients who show early signs of gingivitis.   

Gingivitis is a generative disease that left untreated, will cause significant tooth and gum deterioration. 

Plaque and tarter that sits on the teeth allows bacteria to thrive and multiply. The bacteria causes the gums to become inflamed and bleed.

The condition becomes more noticeable when you brush your teeth or sometimes when you eat. These are signs of the early stage of gingivitis. Gingivitis is easily treated by having the hygienist scale and polish the teeth.

If gingivitis is left untreated, the condition will progress and the roots will need planing.

What is Scaling?

Scaling is the removal of the dental tartar from the tooth's surface.

What is Root Planing?

Root planing is the process of smoothing the root surfaces and removing the infected tooth structure. 

As a non-surgical procedure, scaling and planning are performed in the dentist’s office.

While the procedure is usually painless, advanced stages of gingivitis may make it necessary to numb the area for complete comfort. Deep scaling and root planing are usually broken down into one section of the mouth per appointment.

This allows for adequate healing time and reduces the time for each appointment.