What is periodontitis?

Periodontitis is a bacterial infection of the gums that results in a deterioration of the bone and the gum. Unfortunately, it is often silent and painless.

Where does periodontitis come from?

It is caused by the accumulation of food, plaque and calculus between the teeth and the gums.  These elements contribute to the bacterial growth of the region resulting in inflammation.  The inflammation destroys the bacteria, but also the surrounding tissues, leaving a gap between the gum and the tooth called “periodontal pocket ‘’.  In the periodontal pocket, bacteria multiplies, inflammation destroys… and it’s a vicious circle of destruction. 

The most important factors in the progression of periodontitis are: bacteriological, heredity, smoking, stress, diabetes and other general diseases.

What are the signs of periodontitis?

The usual symptoms are bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, irritations to hot and cold foods, red and swollen gums and possible loss of gums.  In the more advanced phases, we note the mobility of the teeth.

How to treat periodontitis?

First, a detailed examination of the gums is necessary to target problem areas.

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Then, remove any debris and diseased tissue to allow the gum to heal. Manual and ultrasonic instruments can be used. In more advanced cases, an antibiotic may be needed to treat periodontitis. 

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To help improve the healing process, the treatments are more effective if applied at the first appearance of clinical signs.

 

Are the treatments painful ?

The vast majority of patients are treated under local anesthesia. Normally patients feel a certain sensitivity, but nothing unbearable.

 

Does Periodontitis Disappear Completely After Treatments?

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Periodontitis is a chronic infection. We are talking about control and stability rather than total healing. This is the importance of regular follow-ups. In the case of smoking, it is possible to observe a higher risk of refractory periodontitis.

 

What are the complications if I do not treat my periodontitis? 

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If the infection increases, there is an impact on the rest of the body. In fact, research shows an increasing correlation between periodontitis and the following diseases: cardio-respiratory diseases, premature delivery, osteoporosis, arteriosclerosis and complications of diabetes cases.

I am a smoker, what are the effects of smoking on my gums?

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The evidence is irrefutable that smoking is the main extrinsic factor in gum disease. Not only does it decrease the amount of saliva, stain teeth and overload the tongue, it also makes the gums more susceptible to periodontal disease. The severity of periodontitis is directly proportional to the amount of cigarettes smoked daily.

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Does the insurance reimburse fees related to periodontitis treatments?

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Gum treatment is part of basic care. So your insurance plan should normally cover it. However, insurance limits the frequency with which you can benefit from scaling. A check beforehand during your first visit will clarify the situation.

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Instructions following a surfacing

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Oral hygiene

 

The dental hygiene care that you do at home is directly related to the type of healing that you will have after the surfacing. On the day of treatment, brush gently along the gum. Start flossing and using the proxabrush only the day after surfacing. The sensitivity, during brushing and hygiene between the teeth, can remain a few days. In summary, the removal of dental plaque must be done so that the sensitivity disappears and, at the same time, it will maximize healing.

 

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Smoking

 

The smoke and heat produced by tobacco can irritate the gums and delay healing. It is strongly suggested that you do not smoke on the following days of surfacing to promote healing.

 

Possible side effects of a surfacing

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•  Bleading: 

 

It is normal to have a slight bleeding as well as irritated gums during the first two days. In the case of heavy bleeding, please apply a moistened tea bag directly on the site, with a slight pressure, for about fifteen minutes.

 

• Sensitive teeth

 

As a result of surfacing, it may be possible to feel sensitivity. It can occur when in contact with cold or hot air, salty, sweet, spicy and acidic food, as well as during brushing, flossing or using the proxabrush. Most of the time, this sensitivity may remain for a few weeks before gradually decreasing. Remember, removing the plaque daily helps reduce sensitivity, especially if you use sensitive toothpaste.

 

• Sensitive gums

 

The discomfort following a surfacing varies from one patient to another. Normally ibuprofen or acetaminophen (Advil, Motrin, Tylenol) taken as prescribed helps reduce this discomfort.

 

Please contact us if you have pain, swelling that persists or increases and bleeding, or if you notice any of the following symptoms: stiffness in the jaw, presence of suppuration or bad taste.