Dental FAQs
What are the common signs and symptoms of periodontal disease?
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding while brushing, flossing, or eating certain foods
- Gums that are receding or pulling away from the teeth, making your teeth appear longer than before
- Loose or separating teeth
- Pus between your gums and teeth
- Sores in your mouth
- Persistent bad breath
- A change in how your teeth fit together when you bite
- A change in the fit of partial dentures
If you notice any of these symptoms, please contact us right away.
What can I do at home to prevent periodontal disease?
The best way to prevent periodontal disease is by maintaining good oral hygiene at home. This includes brushing your teeth after every meal and before bedtime, flossing at least once a day, and visiting your dentist or periodontist for regular check-ups every three months. Dedicating just a few minutes each day to these preventive measures can save you both time and money by helping you avoid the need for more extensive treatment in the future.
Is there a way to determine my genetic risk for developing gum disease?
Research has shown that genetics can influence a person’s risk for developing gum disease, but other factors also play a significant role. Even if many of your family members or parents have gum disease, it doesn’t necessarily mean you will develop it — especially if you follow the oral care advice from your dentist and periodontist.
Is there a link between periodontal disease and diabetes?
Research has shown a significant link between diabetes and gum disease. People with diabetes are more likely to experience periodontal problems, likely because they are more susceptible to infections. In fact, periodontal disease is often considered one of the major complications of diabetes. Interestingly, the relationship between the two conditions is bidirectional. Just as diabetes can increase the risk of developing periodontal disease, effective periodontal treatment may also help improve blood sugar levels.
How is gum disease linked to cardiovascular disease?
Research has shown that periodontal disease may increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Both periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease are chronic inflammatory conditions, and researchers believe that inflammation may be the link between them. Untreated periodontal disease can elevate inflammation levels in the body, potentially increasing the risk of more serious health complications, including cardiovascular disease. However, ongoing research is being conducted to better understand the exact relationship between these two conditions.
Is there a connection between gum disease and heart disease?
Several research studies suggest that gum disease and heart disease may be linked, with inflammation likely playing a key role in this relationship. If you are at risk for heart disease, it’s important to mention this to your periodontist, as gum disease may increase that risk. For more information on the connection between gum disease and heart disease, as well as its link to other systemic conditions, please consult your dental professional or trusted health resources.
What is the difference between plaque and calculus?
Plaque is a sticky, colourless film that constantly forms on your teeth. Bacteria live in plaque and produce acids that can cause tooth decay and irritate gum tissue. This irritation triggers an inflammatory response in your body, which can eventually lead to gingivitis and periodontal disease. If plaque is not removed regularly through brushing and flossing, it hardens into calculus (also known as tartar). Calculus cannot be removed with a toothbrush; only a dental professional can remove it during a cleaning. To effectively control plaque and calculus, it’s essential to brush your teeth twice daily, floss at least once a day, and visit a hygienist for regular cleanings.
Can children be at risk for developing periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is rarely found in children and is only occasionally seen in teenagers. However, it’s still important for children to understand the value of maintaining healthy teeth and gums to prevent periodontal disease in the future. Encouraging children to brush their teeth twice a day and teaching them how to floss properly are crucial steps. When children learn to floss at an early age, they are more likely to maintain this healthy habit throughout their lives. These simple practices can help protect their teeth and gums from periodontal disease.
As a parent, it’s important to recognize the warning signs of periodontal disease, such as red, swollen, or bleeding gums, as well as persistent bad breath. If your child shows any of these symptoms, please contact us immediately. Additionally, informing your dental professional about your complete family history is a good idea, as genetics can play a significant role in the early development of periodontal disease.
What else do periodontists do besides diagnosing and treating gum disease?
While diagnosing and treating gum disease is a primary focus for periodontists, they are also trained to perform a variety of other important procedures. For instance, when natural teeth cannot be saved, periodontists place dental implants and monitor them to ensure they are functioning properly. They can also correct gum recession and cover exposed root surfaces, which can be both unsightly and sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. These procedures often lay the foundation for additional cosmetic treatments, helping to create a beautiful smile.
Periodontists play a crucial role in the comprehensive planning of your oral care, working closely with your general dentist and other dental professionals.
It’s also important to note that periodontists closely monitor implants to prevent and manage peri-implantitis, a form of gum disease that can develop around dental implants. This is particularly important for patients who lost their teeth due to gum disease, as they are at a higher risk. Preventing peri-implantitis from the start is essential to ensuring that implant treatment lasts a lifetime.
Who should treat my periodontal disease: my general dentist or a periodontist?
Rather than relying on just one dental professional, consider having both your general dentist and a periodontist involved in the diagnosis and treatment of your periodontal disease. This team approach allows your general dentist — who knows your dental and medical history — and your periodontist — who has extensive experience in treating periodontal disease — to collaborate on a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs.
I was recently diagnosed with periodontal disease. How often should I see my periodontist for an examination?
Regular examinations are crucial for monitoring the status of your periodontal disease and detecting any progression over time. Your periodontist will work with you to create a personalised maintenance schedule based on how advanced your periodontal disease is. Several factors will influence this schedule, including your overall health, the severity of bone loss, and risk factors such as smoking and genetics. Your periodontist will continually adjust your care plan to prevent further progression of the disease. For mild periodontal disease, exams may be recommended every six months, while more advanced cases may require visits every few months.
Is periodontal disease contagious?
Research shows that periodontal disease is caused by the body’s inflammatory reaction to bacteria under the gums, so the disease itself is not technically contagious. However, the bacteria that trigger this inflammatory reaction can be spread through saliva. This means that if a family member has periodontal disease, it’s wise to avoid sharing eating utensils or oral health equipment to reduce the risk of spreading these bacteria. If you notice that your spouse or a family member has warning signs of periodontal problems — such as bleeding, red and swollen gums, or bad breath — it may be a good idea to suggest they see a periodontist for an exam. Doing so can help protect the oral health of everyone in the family.
I have a gummy smile and short teeth with big gums — can you help?
Yes, there may be a way to enhance your smile. It’s important to discuss your options with us first so we can explain the best approach to achieving the smile you desire and address any questions you may have. One procedure that can help is called crown lengthening. This involves removing excess gum tissue and reshaping the gum line to create a more balanced proportion between your gums and teeth. We may also collaborate with your general dentist to coordinate additional treatments, such as veneers or crowns, depending on your specific needs. Rest assured, we will recommend the best procedure to improve your smile.
What are the consequences of missing teeth?
Missing some or all of your teeth can have several negative consequences. It can make chewing food more difficult, which can impact your overall diet — an important consideration, especially if you are managing diabetes. Missing teeth may also affect your speech and have emotional consequences, as many people feel less confident about their smile when they have gaps in their teeth.
When a tooth is missing, the adjacent teeth and the opposing tooth may shift to fill the space, potentially leading to bite problems. Additionally, missing teeth can affect the aesthetics of your face. Gaps in your smile can alter your appearance, and if you’re missing several teeth in the front (anterior) area, the lack of support can cause the skin around your mouth to sag, making you appear older than you are.
If you are currently missing any teeth, consider replacing them with dental implants, which can look and feel just like natural teeth.