Periodontics & Gum Therapy
Maintain the Health of Your Gums
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is an infection of the supporting tissues of the teeth. It is typically caused by poor oral hygiene habits that allow plaque to build up on the teeth and harden, eventually affecting the gums.
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can help maintain your gum health by removing plaque and tartar buildup. It is also important to practice good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day, flossing once a day and using mouthwash.
Gum Disease & Overall Health
Gum disease can negatively affect the health of your teeth and gums and your overall health. People who have even moderate levels of periodontal disease show increased amounts of diabetes, dementia, heart disease and other chronic diseases. As part of our holistic care approach, we consider the impact of dental diseases on the body as a whole.
Learn More About Holistic Care
Meet Our Periodontist
Dr. Ryan Schure is a periodontist at Dentistry On Sheppard in North York. He specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease. Dr. Schure is dedicated to providing personalized care to help patients achieve optimal oral health.
Gum Disease Therapy
Treatment methods for gum disease are tailored to suit the specific type and severity of the disease. Our periodontist will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan.
Following the completion of your treatment, we will likely advise regular dental check-ups – typically scheduled four times annually – to help you manage gum disease.
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Preventive Gum Therapy
If the disease is caught in the early stages, preventive therapy will be recommended. This will include regular hygiene cleanings and exams for maintaining the health of your gums.
You should also practice good oral hygiene at home by eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, brushing twice a day, flossing once a day and using mouthwash.
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Non-Surgical Gum Therapy
For patients with mild gum disease, a deep cleaning, performed by a dental hygienist, may be enough to reverse it.
The dental hygienist will scrape away the plaque and tartar around and below the gum line. They will then smooth out any rough areas left behind through a process called scaling and root planing.
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Surgical Gum Therapy
For patients with more advanced forms of gum disease, more invasive surgical treatments may be necessary to reverse it.
There are a few different types of surgical gum therapies we can perform, including gum grafting, crown lengthening, frenectomies and mucogingival flap surgery. The ultimate goal of surgical gum therapy is to reduce pocket depths, eliminate bacteria and infection and promote gum tissue regeneration.
First Signs of Gum Disease
The first sign of gum disease is typically swollen, red, or bleeding gums. You may also notice bad breath that won't go away or find that your teeth are more sensitive than they used to be. Early detection and treatment of this disease are crucial in preventing further damage to the gums and supporting structures of the teeth.
Placing Dental Implants
Gum disease treatment may also include placing dental implants. Replacing missing teeth can prevent further bone loss and deterioration of the gums. Additionally, implants can provide support to surrounding teeth, reducing the risk of infection.