Your Calgary Invisalign Provider
What is Gum Disease?
Did you know that periodontal (or gum) disease is considered to be one of the most common diseases in the world, and the leading cause of tooth loss in adults?
Common signs of periodontal disease include gums that are red and bleed easily, persistent bad breath, gums pulling away from the teeth, and loose teeth.
And aside from causing oral discomfort, gum disease can have effects on your overall health, too! If you have any inflammation-related health issues, it is important for you to see your dentist and dental team regularly, and that you're extra vigilant about your daily oral home care!
What to Expect at a Periodontal Hygiene Appointment
With proper gum treatments, it may be possible to return gum tissue to a normal, healthy state. The first step is to schedule a hygiene appointment. During this appointment, we’ll check:
- For any lumps or abnormal areas in your mouth. Dentists and hygienists perform regular oral cancer screenings at your checkups.
- Whether any of your teeth are missing or loose
- The color, texture, size and shape of your gums and tongue
- Whether you have fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures or implants
- How much plaque is on your teeth
- The depth of space between your tooth and gum
After the above assessment, we'll sit down with you and develop a dental treatment plan to help you heal your smile, or prevent problems from occurring.
Inflammation of the Gums
At Orijin Dental, we know that gum inflammation is the root cause of many teeth problems. Swollen gums are often the root cause of many chronic diseases.
Gum disease or an infection of the gums such as periodontal disease and gingivitis creates stress on the entire body, including the immune system.
As part of our approach to integrated wellness, we recommend that you have your teeth cleaned at least every six to nine months to minimize inflammation in your gums. If your gums bleed or are sore during brushing, please ensure that you speak to your dentist and hygienist at your next appointment.
In some cases, an interval of every three to four months may be appropriate, depending on your home care, your immune system, and your genetic risk factors. Your dentist or hygienist can determine the best frequency of care for you by assessing your gum health at each visit.
