Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease and periodontitis, is caused when bacteria in plaque builds up between the gums and teeth. When the bacteria begin to grow, the gums surrounding the tooth can become inflamed.
If left untreated, this inflammation can cause the gums and supporting bone structure to deteriorate. This can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and eventual tooth loss. In addition, research has shown that gum disease is associated with other systemic diseases, such as diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and heart disease.
Luckily, periodontal disease can be preventable. Adding these habits to your daily routine can help:
• Brush your teeth twice a day for 2 minutes. Brushing helps remove food debris and plaque trapped between your teeth and gums, and don’t forget to include your tongue. Ask one of our hygienists to demonstrate proper brushing technique if you feel you require assistance.
• Floss. Flossing at least once a day helps remove food particles and plaque between teeth and along the gum line that your toothbrush can’t quite reach.
• Use mouthwash. Using a mouthwash can help reduce plaque and bacteria.
• Know your risk. Age, smoking, diet and genetics can all increase your risk for periodontal disease. If you are at increased risk, be sure to talk with your dental professional.
• See a dental hygienist. Get an annual comprehensive periodontal evaluation from one of our dental hygienists. They will assess the levels of gum inflammation, bone loss, and gum recession, and assess any risk factors for periodontal disease. Identifying symptoms of gum disease early is key to protecting your teeth and gums.
Call 604-574-4000 to book your appointment!
What is gum recession?
Gum recession occurs when the margin of the gum tissue that surrounds the tooth receeds, or lowers, exposing the root of the tooth. When gum recession occurs, supporting tissue and bone structure of the teeth are damaged, and over time can result in tooth mobility and tooth loss due to lack of supporting gum and bone.
What can you do about gum recession?
A gum graft is a type of dental surgery performed to correct the effects of gum recession. The goal of the surgery is to build the gum back up where it has receded to protect the exposed tooth from damage and repair any damage already done.
Gum Graft Procedure
There is a variety of gum grafts available, and the type of surgery undertaken depends on the extent and severity of damage and the individual needs. A consult exam is required to discuss the different types of surgery available to decide which option is the most suitable.
Once the patient and dentist have considered all the options and decided on the type of surgery, there is not much that a person needs to do to prepare for the procedure. However, it is essential to ensure a family member or friend is available to drive to and from the appointment. This is important because the pain medication prescribed to manage the discomfort means it is unsafe for a person having gum graft surgery to drive. People getting gum grafts will be able to go home right away after the procedure. The dentist will discuss all the aftercare instructions to ensure the graft heals successfully. Most people can return to work the following day.
Recovery After Gum Graft
A person can aid recovery by:
- avoiding flossing or brushing at the treatment site
- using a special mouthwash which controls plaque build up
- taking antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection
- avoiding strenuous exercise
- avoiding foods that are hard to eat
- eating soft, cool foods, for example, ice cream, pasta, eggs, yogurt, and soft cheese
- avoiding smoking
The pain and discomfort a person experiences will vary. The healing process is often quick, taking 1 to 2 weeks for the mouth to heal fully. People can take over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers or prescription medications to help manage any discomfort.
At 5 Corner Dental, we have Dr Eiman, who specializes in gum surgeries. Come in for a consult with Dr Eiman to see if gum grafting is right for you.
Dental x-rays are essential, preventative, diagnostic tools that provide valuable information not visible during a regular dental exam. In the mid 1980’s, digital x-rays became available in dentistry. After years of advancement and adjustment of this new technology, digital x-rays are becoming more popular in dental offices.
At 5 Corner Dental, we use the latest technology in digital radiography (digital x-ray). This technology uses an electronic sensor (instead of an x-ray film) that captures and stores the digital image on a computer. This image can be instantly viewed and enlarged, helping the dentist and dental hygienist detect problems faster with higher diagnostic accuracy.
Another advantage to using digital x-rays is the reduction in radiation by 80-90% compared to the already low exposure of traditional dental x-rays, since it requires less radiographic exposure to produce an image.
Dr. Mehrzad Hakimi and the team at 5 Corner Dental use this information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental abnormalities and complete an accurate treatment plan. Without x-rays, problem areas may go undetected.
Call us or visit our website to book an appointment for a dental check to ensure your teeth are happy inside and out!
Phone: 604-574-4000
Website: www.5cornerdental.com/
At 5 Corner Dental, we use a special Cavity Detection Device called CariVu™ to screen teeth for cracks and cavities. What’s even better is we provide this service at no charge!
We value our patients oral health and want to provide the best service possible. By taking X-rays and confirming our findings with this Cavity Detection Device, we are insuring the best possible treatment plan and outcome for our patients.
What is CariVu™ ?
CariVu™ is a cavity detection device that uses a patented transillumination technology to support the identification of cavities and cracks in tooth enamel. CariVu™ covers the tooth and illuminates it with a safe, near-infrared light, making the enamel appear transparent while porous lesions trap and absorb the light. When suspicious areas are seen on an X-ray, CariVu™ is used to expose cavities with very high accuracy, so the dentist can confidently determine whether it needs monitoring over time or requires immediate treatment.
For patients with a gag reflex or for small children, CariVu™ is a safe and effective way to detect cavities without the use of X-rays. If you have any further questions or would like to try the CariVu™ cavity detection device at no cost, book an appointment for a check up.
CariVu™ Cavity Detection Device