Periodontics

Gum Diseases

Gum diseases, also known as periodontal diseases, are infections that affect the tissues surrounding the teeth. They are primarily caused by the buildup of plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—on the teeth. If left untreated, gum diseases can lead to serious dental health issues, including tooth loss.

  • Types of Gum Diseases:
    • Gingivitis:

      This is the earliest stage of gum disease, characterized by inflammation of the gums. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and bleeding during brushing or flossing. Gingivitis is usually reversible with good oral hygiene.

    • Periodontitis:

      If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis. This more severe form involves the loss of bone and tissue supporting the teeth. Symptoms may include gum recession, pockets forming between teeth and gums, and bad breath. Periodontitis can lead to tooth mobility and loss.

    • Advanced Periodontitis:

      In the most severe cases, substantial loss of tissue and bone occurs, resulting in significant tooth mobility or loss. Treatment at this stage may involve more invasive procedures, including surgery.

  • Causes:
    • Poor oral hygiene practices that allow plaque to accumulate.
    • Smoking or chewing tobacco.
    • Genetics or family history of gum disease.
    • Hormonal changes (e.g., during pregnancy or menopause).
    • Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, which can affect gum health.
    • Medications that reduce saliva flow, leading to dry mouth.
  • Symptoms:
    • Red, swollen, or bleeding gums.
    • Persistent bad breath.
    • Loss of teeth or tooth mobility.
    • Pockets between teeth and gums.
    • Changes in bite or fit of partial dentures.
  • Treatment:
    • Professional dental cleanings to remove plaque and tartar.
    • Scaling and root planing to treat deeper infections.
    • Antibiotics to manage infections.
    • Bone and tissue grafts in advanced cases.
    • Surgical options to correct severe periodontal issues.

Preventing gum diseases involves maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, along with routine dental visits for check-ups and cleanings. If you experience any symptoms related to gum disease, it’s important to consult a dental professional. Contact THC Dental Centre for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Laser Gum Treatment

Laser gum treatment, also known as laser periodontal therapy, is an advanced dental procedure that uses laser technology to treat gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis. This minimally invasive method offers several benefits compared to traditional surgical treatments.

  • How It Works:

    During laser gum treatment, a dental professional uses a focused beam of light energy (laser) to remove infected tissue and bacteria from the gums while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. The laser can also promote healing and stimulate the regeneration of gum and bone tissue.

  • Benefits of Laser Gum Treatment:
    • Minimally Invasive: Reduced discomfort and quicker recovery time compared to traditional surgery.
    • Precision: Targeted treatment that allows for careful removal of diseased tissue without affecting healthy tissue.
    • Reduced Bleeding: Laser treatment typically results in less bleeding during and after the procedure.
    • Reduced Need for Anesthesia: Many patients report less discomfort and anxiety, reducing or eliminating the need for local anesthesia.
    • Faster Recovery: Patients often heal quicker with fewer post-operative complications.
  • Conditions Treated:
    • Gingivitis
    • Moderate to severe periodontitis
    • Periodontal pockets
    • Root sensitivity
    • Other gum-related issues
  • The Procedure:
    1. The patient is prepared and may receive anesthesia if necessary.
    2. The dentist uses the laser to target and eliminate harmful bacteria and infected tissue.
    3. The laser promotes healing by stimulating the surrounding healthy gum and bone tissue.
    4. After the procedure, the dentist may provide recommendations for oral care and follow-up treatment.
  • Post-Treatment Care:

    Patients are typically given guidelines on how to care for their gums post-treatment, which may include recommendations on oral hygiene practices, activities to avoid, and follow-up appointments to monitor healing.

Laser gum treatment is an effective and innovative option for patients suffering from gum disease. If you’re interested in learning more about this treatment or whether it’s suitable for your condition, contact THC Dental Centre to schedule a consultation.

Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening is a dental surgical procedure that involves removing a portion of gum tissue, bone, or both to expose more of a tooth’s structure. This procedure is often performed to improve the aesthetics of the smile or to prepare a tooth for a restoration such as a crown or bridge.

  • Indications for Crown Lengthening:
    • Restorative Purposes: When there is insufficient tooth structure above the gum line to support a dental restoration, crown lengthening may be necessary to allow for proper fit and function.
    • Gummy Smile Correction: When excessive gum tissue covers the teeth, resulting in a “gummy” smile, crown lengthening can help create a more balanced and attractive smile by exposing more of the tooth structure.
    • Preparation for Dental Procedures: It may be required before placing crowns, bridges, or veneers to ensure adequate tooth structure is available for proper attachment and support.
  • The Procedure:
    1. The dentist will administer local anesthesia to ensure the patient is comfortable during the procedure.
    2. The affected gum tissue and bone may be carefully removed to expose more of the tooth. The amount of tissue removed depends on the individual case.
    3. Once the desired amount of tooth structure is exposed, the area is cleaned, and sutures may be placed to ensure proper healing.
    4. The patient will receive post-operative care instructions and may need to schedule follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
  • Benefits of Crown Lengthening:
    • Enhanced aesthetics by correcting a gummy smile.
    • Improved functionality and proper support for dental restorations.
    • Prevention of further dental complications by ensuring adequate tooth structure for treatment.
  • Post-Procedure Care:

    After crown lengthening, patients may experience some swelling and discomfort. It’s essential to follow post-operative care instructions, which may include:

    • Taking prescribed pain medications as needed.
    • Avoiding strenuous activities for a few days.
    • Maintaining good oral hygiene while avoiding the surgical site initially.
    • Using a saltwater rinse to promote healing.

Crown lengthening is a safe and effective procedure that can significantly enhance the aesthetics of your smile and ensure proper support for dental restorations. If you think you might benefit from crown lengthening or wish to learn more about the procedure, contact THC Dental Centre to schedule a consultation.

Gum Grafting

Gum grafting, also known as periodontal grafting, is a surgical procedure designed to treat gum recession, which occurs when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or even the tooth’s root. Gum grafting helps restore gum tissue, protect tooth roots, and improve the overall aesthetics of the smile.

  • Indications for Gum Grafting:
    • Gum Recession: To cover exposed tooth roots caused by gum recession, which can result from periodontal disease, aggressive brushing, or orthodontic treatment.
    • Tooth Sensitivity: To alleviate sensitivity that may occur when the tooth roots are exposed.
    • Improving Aesthetics: To enhance the appearance of the smile by restoring the natural contour of the gums.
    • Preventing Further Recession: To halt the progression of gum recession and prevent further periodontal issues.
  • The Procedure:
    1. The dentist will begin by administering local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort during the procedure.
    2. Depending on the type of graft, the dentist may take tissue from another part of the mouth (usually the palate) or use a donor tissue.
    3. The gum tissue is then carefully placed over the area of recession and stitched into place.
    4. The area is cleaned, and the dentist may provide instructions for post-operative care.
  • Types of Gum Grafts:
    • Connective Tissue Graft: This is the most common type, where tissue is taken from beneath a flap of skin on the palate and stitched to the recipient site.
    • Free Gingival Graft: Tissue is taken directly from the palate and placed on the site of recession.
    • Pedicle Graft: This involves taking gum tissue from an adjacent tooth and moving it over to cover the exposed root.
  • Benefits of Gum Grafting:
    • Restores gum tissue and protects tooth roots from decay and sensitivity.
    • Improves the aesthetics of the smile by creating a more balanced gum line.
    • Helps prevent further gum recession and associated dental issues.
  • Post-Procedure Care:

    After gum grafting, patients should follow specific care instructions to promote healing:

    • Adhering to a soft-food diet for a few days post-surgery.
    • Avoiding brushing the surgical site for several days.
    • Taking prescribed medications, including pain relievers and antibiotics, as directed.
    • Attending follow-up appointments for monitoring and adjustments.

Gum grafting is a safe and effective way to address gum recession and restore the health and appearance of your gums. If you are experiencing gum recession or other related issues, contact THC Dental Centre to schedule a consultation and explore your options for treatment.

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