Periodontitis, a severe gum infection, can harm the soft tissue and destroy the bone that supports your teeth if not treated. This illness has an impact not just on your oral health but also on your general well-being. At Waterloo Dental Centre, we are dedicated to helping you keep a healthy smile. This blog post will look at the best techniques to treat periodontitis and how you may take preventative measures to keep your gums and teeth healthy.

Understanding Periodontitis

Periodontitis begins with plaque, a sticky bacterial film that accumulates on teeth. If not eliminated with frequent brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a professional. This can eventually cause gum inflammation, sometimes known as gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can proceed to periodontitis, a condition in which the inner layer of the gum and bone pulls away from the teeth, leaving pockets that can get infected.

Signs and Symptoms

Recognizing early indicators of periodontitis is critical for successful treatment. Some common symptoms are:

  • Swollen or puffy gums
  • Bright red, dusky red, or purplish gums
  • Gums that feel tender when touched
  • Receding gums
  • New spaces developing between your teeth
  • Pus between your teeth and gums
  • Bad breath
  • Loose teeth
  • Painful chewing

If you observe any of these signs, you should seek professional dental care immediately.

Effective Treatment Options

Periodontitis is treated with a mix of expert dental treatment and careful at-home oral hygiene measures. Here are some of the most effective therapies:

Professional Cleaning

The initial step in treating periodontitis is a professional cleaning, commonly termed scaling and root planing. This deep cleaning method removes plaque and tartar both above and below the gum line. Our dental hygienists at Waterloo Dental Centre utilize specialized equipment to clean down to your teeth’s roots, smoothing out rough places to keep bacteria from reattaching.

Medications

In rare circumstances, drugs may be provided to assist in managing the illness. These may include:

  • Antibiotic gels: These are used for gum pockets following extensive cleaning.
  • Antiseptic mouthwash: Use antiseptic mouthwash as part of your dental care routine.
  • Enzyme suppressants: Are used orally to reduce harmful enzymes produced by bacteria.

Surgical Treatments

Surgical procedures may be required in advanced cases of periodontitis. These may include:

Flap Surgery

This treatment, also known as pocket reduction surgery, involves raising the gums to remove tartar deposits before suturing them back in place to fit tightly around the teeth.

Bone and Tissue Grafts

If periodontitis has resulted in bone loss, bone grafting can help repair it. Similarly, tissue grafts can help to restore missing gum tissue.

At-Home Care and Prevention

While professional treatments are essential, practicing proper oral hygiene at home is just as important. Here are some methods to help you avoid periodontitis:

  • Brush twice daily: with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Make sure you brush for at least two minutes.
  • Floss daily: To eliminate plaque and food particles from between teeth and under the gumline.
  • Use an antiseptic mouthwash: Use antimicrobial mouthwash to decrease plaque and avoid gingivitis.
  • Quit smoking: To reduce the risk of periodontitis and improve healing.
  • Maintain a healthy diet: To increase immunity and improve oral health.

The Importance of Regular Dental Visits

Periodontitis can be prevented and detected early with regular dental check-ups and cleanings. During these appointments, our specialists will assess your dental health and make personalized recommendations to help maintain your gums and teeth healthy.

Why Should You Choose Waterloo Dental Centre?

We recognize that coping with periodontitis can be overwhelming. Our skilled team is committed to providing you with the best care in a welcoming and comfortable setting. We use cutting-edge technologies and techniques to provide the best potential outcomes for our patients.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Please do not wait until it’s too late. If you have periodontitis symptoms or need a routine check-up, please call us at 519-883-0505 to make an appointment. Allow us to help you develop and keep a healthy, beautiful smile.

Periodontitis is a serious ailment, but you can protect your oral health and overall well-being with proper treatment and prevention. Trust the professionals at Waterloo Dental Centre to help you at every step.

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.