Heal & Protect Your Gums With Dr. Zajac

Your gums are the foundation of your smile, and taking care of them is necessary for your oral and overall health. Caring for your gums can sometimes be difficult, as they’re prone to problems that may not be noticeable at first, especially gum disease. Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is a widespread oral health concern affecting many individuals. At Zajac Dental, our Oakville Implant dentist, Dr. Pawel Zajac, is here to help patients prevent and combat gum disease with gum disease treatment options. 

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a bacterial infection and inflammation of the gums that can lead to tooth loss and other health problems if left untreated. It’s caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film that coats teeth and contains bacteria. 

If plaque isn’t removed regularly, it will harden and turn into tartar (calculus). Tartar is a hardened form of plaque that becomes trapped between teeth, where it decays into bacteria. Failing to properly remove these substances can irritate the gums and cause them to become inflamed.

Other causes of gum disease include:

• Smoking and use of tobacco
• Genetics
• Diabetes
• Stress
• Medications that reduce saliva production and cause dry mouth
• Hormonal changes, such as those experienced during pregnancy and menopause
• Poor nutrition
• Dental cavitations and tooth extractions
• Changes in hormone levels, particularly progesterone and estrogen, can affect gum tissues

Stages of Gum Disease 

1. Gingivitis: Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. It is reversible with proper oral hygiene and professional cleaning. 
2. Initial Periodontitis: If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to initial periodontitis. In this stage, the infection begins to affect the bone and tissue that support the teeth.
3. Moderate Periodontitis: Moderate periodontitis is characterized by further destruction of the bone and tissue supporting the teeth. 
4. Advanced Periodontitis: Advanced periodontitis is the most severe stage of gum disease, where there’s significant bone and tissue loss. 

Gum Disease Symptoms 

Common signs of gum disease include:

• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Bleeding gums, especially during brushing or flossing
• Receding gums, or gums that pull away from the teeth
• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Changes in the way teeth fit together when biting or chewing
• Pus between the teeth and gums
• Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
• Changes in the alignment or spacing of teeth

If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, contact Zajac Dental and schedule a consultation. Dr. Zajac will be able to diagnose your condition and discuss your treatment options. 

Gum Disease Treatment Options at Zajac Dental

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing, often referred to as non-surgical periodontal therapy, is a comprehensive two-part process. Scaling involves the meticulous removal of plaque, tartar, and bacteria from both above and below the gum line. This process helps eliminate the factors contributing to inflammation and infection. 

Root planing follows scaling and involves smoothing the rough surfaces of the tooth roots. This step discourages further bacterial attachment and aids in the healing process. Scaling and root planing are crucial in managing the early stages of gum disease and preventing its progression.

Antibiotic Therapy

In some cases, alongside scaling and root planing, your dentist might prescribe antibiotic therapy. Oral or topical antibiotics may be recommended to control bacterial infection and promote gum healing. 

• Oral Antibiotics are taken by mouth in the form of pills or capsules.
• Topical Antibiotics can be applied directly to the gums or placed below the gumline. 

It’s important to note that antibiotics are often used as a supplementary treatment and are effective in reducing bacterial growth. However, they’re typically combined with other treatments to achieve comprehensive results.

Surgical Therapy

When gum disease has advanced and non-surgical methods aren’t sufficient, surgical intervention may be necessary to restore gum health. Some common surgical procedures for treating gum disease include:

• Gum Grafting: This procedure involves taking tissue from one area of the mouth and grafting it onto areas where gum tissue has receded. Gum grafting can cover exposed tooth roots, reduce sensitivity, and improve gum aesthetics.
• Bone Grafting: Bone loss often accompanies advanced gum disease. Bone grafting involves placing bone or bone-like materials in areas with diminished bone support. This procedure promotes bone regeneration and provides a stable foundation for teeth.
• Pocket Reduction (Flap Surgery): In cases where deep pockets have formed between the teeth and gums, flap surgery might be performed. The gums are lifted to access and clean the root surfaces, eliminating bacteria and promoting attachment of the gums to the teeth.
• Guided Tissue Regeneration: This technique involves using special membranes to encourage the growth of specific tissues, such as bone and gum tissue, in areas where they have been lost due to gum disease.

Gum Disease Prevention Options 

Preventing gum disease from occurring, reoccurring, or spreading, is just as essential for maintaining good oral health as treating it. Here are some tips from Dr. Zajac on how to prevent gum disease:

• Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth.
• Use an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
• Limit sugary and starchy foods, which can contribute to plaque buildup.
• Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings.
• Avoid smoking and tobacco use, which are significant factors in the development and progression of gum disease.
• Limit or completely avoid alcohol consumption.
• Maintain a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables to provide essential vitamins and minerals for gum health.
• Stay hydrated at all times.

Frequently Asked Questions