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gum disease

The Stages of Gum Disease

Gum disease occurs when there is an infection of the tissues that keep your teeth in place. This oral condition is mainly caused by bacteria from plaque and tartar buildup.

Plaque is the film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and around your gum line from poor oral hygiene. Flossing cleans plaque from between your teeth and around your gum line, preventing it from hardening into tartar and protecting both your teeth and gums from bacteria. With a multitude of bacteria known to cause gum disease, it is crucial to have a thorough home oral care regimen as well as make your regular dental cleanings a priority.

There are 3 stages of gum disease: gingivitis, periodontitis and advanced periodontitis.

Gingivitis: This is the first stage of gum disease. Gingivitis begins with poor oral hygiene and bacteria buildup causing irritation to the gums. Signs of gingivitis include red, swollen gums and bleeding when brushing or flossing your teeth. Implementing a daily oral care regimen of proper brushing and flossing can reverse gingivitis. This is because the bone and fibers that hold your teeth in place have not yet been affected.

Periodontitis: This occurs when gingivitis progresses and irreversible damage is done to the supporting bone and fibers that hold your teeth in place. Deep pockets form in the spaces between your teeth and gums, which allow plaque, bacteria, and tartar to accumulate. The vital support structures of the teeth are destroyed and gums may recede and form gaps between your teeth. Seeking immediate treatment is necessary to prevent further damage and tooth loss.

Advanced Periodontitis: At this final stage of gum disease, pockets that have formed in the previous stage are much deeper, allowing teeth to shift and become loose. Connective tissues and bone support of the teeth are now destroyed due to the widespread of bacteria growth. Loose teeth now can move around in the mouth and affect your bite. If teeth are to be saved at this stage, seeing a doctor for gum disease is needed.

If you know you’re at greater risk for developing gum disease, a great oral hygiene routine is a must. Visit us at Pine Seven Dental Centre in Woodbridge to check up on your oral health and catch any oral concerns in the early stages!

Why Care About Your Dental Hygiene Visit?

When it comes to having your dental hygiene visit, have you ever thought about it as just a simple cleaning? It is easy to think about skipping your dental cleaning appointment if you think about it as just a cleaning. However, a dental hygiene appointment is much more than just a teeth cleaning. Even though you brush and floss regularly, learn why regular dental hygiene visits are essential to your oral health.

Why Keep Your Dental Hygiene Appointment?

Tartar Removal

Even with regular brushing and flossing, it is impossible to remove every trace of plaque in the mouth. Plaque that is not removed eventually hardens into what we call tartar or calculus. Hardened plaque cannot be removed by brushing and flossing. It can only be removed using specialized dental tools by your dental hygienist or dentist. It is vital to remove hardened plaque because it acts as a rough surface for more bacteria to attach. Bacteria in the mouth must be removed or else it leads to gum inflammation and gum disease.

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The Systemic Link

While research is still ongoing, many studies show an increased risk of developing issues such as stroke, diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers, Alzheimer’s disease are linked with chronic gum disease. It is important to understand that oral health is connected to your overall health.

Control Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is an advanced form of gum disease that causes the breakdown of bone that supports teeth in the mouth. It is especially important for patients with periodontal disease to see their dental professional regularly to monitor periodontal disease. Having periodontal disease makes it harder to keep the mouth clean due to issues such as periodontal pockets. Regular dental cleanings keep your mouth clean and prevent advancement of further damage from periodontal disease.

Oral Cancer Screening

While there are things you can do to monitor your oral health at home, your dental professional is able to check your mouth for any abnormalities thoroughly.

If it has been a while since your last dental hygiene appointment, contact us now to schedule your visit.

Book your appointment now, because it starts with a smile!
Call us today at (905) 856-2535