If left untreated, a severe gum infection known as periodontitis can damage the soft tissue and demolish the bone that supports your teeth. This condition can have broader implications for your overall well-being in addition to affecting your oral health. At Kitchener Dentist Centre, we are dedicated to assisting you in preserving a healthy smile. This exhaustive guide will investigate the most effective methods for treating periodontitis and the proactive measures you can take to maintain the health of your gums and teeth.

Understanding Periodontitis

Plaque, a sticky film of microorganisms that develops on your teeth, is the precursor to periodontitis. To prevent plaque from hardening into tartar, which can only be removed by a professional cleansing, it must be removed through regular brushing and flossing. Gingivitis, which is characterized by gum inflammation, may result from this over time. Periodontitis can develop as a result of the interior layer of the gum and bone pulling away from the teeth, resulting in the formation of pockets that may become infected if gingivitis is not treated.

Symptoms and Signs

Identifying the initial indicators of periodontitis is essential for successfully managing the condition. Symptoms that are frequently encountered include:

  • Gums that are swollen or puffy
  • Gums that are bright red, dusky red, or purplish
  • Gums that are tender when touched
  • Gums that are receding
  • New spaces developing between your teeth
  • Pus between your teeth and gums
  • Bad breath
  • Loose teeth
  • Painful chomping

You must promptly seek professional dental care if you observe any of these symptoms.

Effective Treatment Options

Professional dental care and diligent at-home oral hygiene practices are necessary to treat periodontitis. The following are some of the most effective treatments:

Professional Cleaning

The initial phase in the treatment of periodontitis is professional cleaning, which is also referred to as scaling and root planing. This deep-cleaning procedure eliminates plaque and tartar from both above and below the gingival line. At Kitchener Dentist Centre, our dental hygienists employ specialized instruments to clean your teeth to the roots, smoothing out rough spots to prevent bacteria from reattaching.

Medications

In certain instances, medications may be prescribed to assist in the management of the infection. These may encompass:

  • Antibiotic gels: Applied to the gum pockets following a deep cleansing.
  • Antiseptic mouthwash: A component of your daily oral hygiene regimen.
  • Enzyme suppressants: Orally administered medications that assist in the regulation of the destructive enzymes that microbes produce.

Surgical Treatments

Surgical interventions may be required for advanced cases of periodontitis. These may encompass:

Flap Surgery

This procedure, also known as pocket reduction surgery, involves lifting the gums to remove tartar deposits and suturing them back into position to ensure a secure fit around the teeth.

Bone and Tissue Grafts

If periodontitis has resulted in bone loss, bone transplantation may be useful in regaining the lost bone. In the same way, tissue grafts can assist in the regeneration of lost gum tissue.

At-Home Care and Prevention

Although professional treatments are essential, it is equally important to maintain excellent oral hygiene at home. Periodontitis can be prevented by adhering to the following recommendations:

  • Brush twice daily: Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to cleanse your teeth twice daily. Ensure that you brush for a minimum of two minutes.
  • Floss daily: Flossing is a method of removing plaque and food particles from the spaces between your teeth and beneath the gumline.
  • Use an antiseptic mouthwash: This can assist in the prevention of gingivitis and the reduction of plaque.
  • Quit smoking: Smoking is a substantial risk factor for periodontitis and can impede the healing process.
  • Maintain a healthy diet: Consuming a well-balanced diet can enhance your oral health and strengthen your immune system.

The Significance of Consistent Dental Examinations

Periodontitis can be prevented and detected in its early phases by conducting routine dental check-ups and cleanings. Our team will monitor your oral health and offer personalized recommendations to maintain the health of your gums and teeth during these visits.

Why Choose Kitchener Dentist Centre?

We recognize that managing periodontitis can be difficult. Our team is committed to delivering the highest quality of care in a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere. We implement the most advanced technologies and methodologies to guarantee our patients the most favourable outcomes.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Do not delay until it is too late. Contact us at 519-578-7830 or by scheduling an appointment if you are experiencing any symptoms of periodontitis or are due for a regular check-up. We are here to assist you in acquiring and preserving an attractive, healthy smile.

 

DISCLAIMER: The advice offered is intended to be informational only and generic in nature. It is in no way offering a definitive diagnosis or specific treatment recommendations for your particular situation. Any advice offered is no substitute for proper evaluation and care by a qualified dentist.