Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting your teeth. It starts with plaque buildup and, if left untreated, can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to maintaining both your oral and overall health.

Key Facts About Gum Disease
Caused by plaque buildup on teeth and gums
Leads to gum inflammation, recession, and bone loss
Can result in tooth loss if not treated early
Linked to other health issues like heart disease and diabetes

The primary cause of gum disease is bacterial plaque that forms on your teeth daily. Without proper brushing and flossing, this plaque hardens into tartar, leading to infection and inflammation.

Risk factors include: poor oral hygiene, smoking, diabetes, hormonal changes, and genetics.

• Bleeding, red, or swollen gums
• Persistent bad breath or bad taste
• Gums pulling away from teeth
• Loose teeth or changes in bite

Yes. Untreated gum disease is linked to serious health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues.

Early gum disease (gingivitis) can be reversed with proper oral hygiene and professional cleanings. Advanced stages (periodontitis) require specialized treatment to manage and prevent further damage.

In its early stages, gum disease is often painless. As it progresses, you may experience discomfort, tenderness, or pain while chewing.

Treatment for periodontal disease includes non-surgical methods like improved oral hygiene, scaling and root planning, and antibiotics, as well as surgical options such as pocket reduction surgery, bone grafts, and soft tissue grafts for advanced cases.

Gum graft surgery is a dental procedure for treating thinning gums or gum recession. Gum grafting covers exposed teeth roots and/or adds volume to your gum line.

It is recommended for many reasons and may be necessary to maintain your teeth long term.

Dental implants are small posts, typically made of titanium, that are surgically placed into the jawbone to support replacement teeth, like crowns, bridges, or dentures. They are considered the gold standard for replacing missing teeth because they provide a strong, natural looking foundation for a beautiful, functional smile.

Crown lengthening is a procedure where the gums of the teeth are more ideally repositioned. Typically, this involves recontouring gum tissue, and sometimes bone, to expose more of a tooth's surface for a crown.

In specific situations, bone grafting can be beneficial in the treatment of periodontal disease. This is a procedure that uses specialized materials to replace, or encourage healing, where bone has been lost from periodontal disease, trauma, or tooth extraction.

A cosmetic periodontal procedure is a specialized treatment, such as gum reshaping and grafting, that restores balance and aesthetics to your smile.

Your dentist may have referred you to a periodontist because you could benefit from specialized care for your gums, bone and the supporting structure around your teeth. Seeing a periodontist ensures you get the highest level of care for your oral health, especially when your condition goes beyond the scope of general dentistry.

After a complete review of your medical and dental history, you should expect a thorough oral exam as well taking X-rays to assess bone health. After the exam, a personalized treatment plan will be reviewed to address your specific needs

If you have gum disease, your periodontist will recommend a personalized treatment and maintenance schedule, often every three to four months for cleanings and checkups.

If you live in Ontario, check out the OSP member directory - https://osp.on.ca/find-a-periodontist/

Membership in Ontario Society of Periodontists is voluntary, and not all licensed periodontists choose to join. You can check the registration status of your periodontist on the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario's website.