Periodontics

Gum disease is caused by inflammation as a result of bacterial plaque accumulation. Early signs of gum disease include bleeding, swollen, red or tender gums. If left untreated, pockets form around the teeth and the tissues and ligaments that anchor the teeth to the jaw begin to pull away. The inflammation may be related to poor dental hygiene but also to chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer or respiratory illnesses.

Gum disease is most often a sneaky, progressive infection that takes many years to evolve often without symptoms before irreversible damage is done. Thus, periodontal assessments are recommended once a year to detect early signs any and prevent further progression. Depending on the stage of the disease, the treatment may range from professional cleaning, to surgical gum grafting. Gum recession treatment may also be undertaken for aesthetic reasons or to help reduce tooth sensitivity.