Periodontal Disease Symptoms and Treatment Options
Periodontal disease is widespread, affecting an estimated seven out of ten Canadians. Gum disease is a progressive condition that can start with only mild symptoms, but if left untreated, it can result in irreversible damage to your teeth, gums, and other oral tissues. Led by Dr. Kenneth Poznikoff, Riverside Dental Clinic in Drumheller, Alberta, offers gum disease treatment options to meet various patient needs.
Stages of gum disease
Gingivitis is the initial stage of gum disease. While some patients don’t notice any symptoms at this stage, we check for signs of gum disease at every routine check-up to ensure that your gums are healthy and initiate a plan to restore them to health if needed. Early signs of gum disease can include:
- Swollen gums
- Gums that are red instead of a healthy pink
- Bleeding when you brush or floss
- Bad breath that persists despite brushing and flossing
- Tooth sensitivity
As the bacterial infection grows in your gums, the acids begin to eat away at the tissues, causing the gums to start to separate from the teeth. These areas, called periodontal pockets, become a breeding ground for the bacteria and plaque to increase and are impossible to clean with brushing and flossing at home. This vicious cycle continues and can eventually lead to severe oral health problems such as receding gums, bone loss, loose teeth, and even tooth loss.
Treatment options
In this stage, it is possible to reverse periodontal disease with a diligent home oral hygiene routine and regular appointments with the dentist for professional cleanings. However, there is no cure for gum disease in its later stages. It is essential to manage it in partnership with your dentist to prevent further progression and damage to your teeth, soft tissues, and underlying bone. Depending on the extent of the infection, your dentist may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
- Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing): This is often the first course of action when advanced periodontal disease is identified. During this procedure, we gently clean out the periodontal pockets, sanitize the area, and then smooth the roots of the teeth to better form a healthy reattachment with the gum tissue.
- Antibiotic medications: Topical or oral antibiotics can be used to help get the gum infection under control.
- Gum grafting: Patients who have experienced the loss of gum tissue may need a gum graft to cover and protect exposed tooth roots.
- Surgical treatment: Gum surgery may be necessary in severe cases of gum disease.
At Riverside Dental Clinic, Dr. Kenneth Poznikoff and our team of dentists provide you with non-judgmental, compassionate care designed to help restore your oral health. To schedule your appointment at our Drumheller, AB dental practice, call (403) 823-7755 today!
Dr. Ken Poznikoff, General Dentist
With over 38 years of experience, Dr. Ken Poznikoff is a highly skilled General Dentist and the owner of Riverside Dental Clinic. A graduate of the University of Alberta, he holds a Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree as well as degrees in Science and Pharmacy. Dr. Poznikoff is committed to advanced dental education and has completed extensive training in orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry, sleep disordered breathing, sedation dentistry, dentures and restorative dentistry. He holds hospital privileges at the Drumheller Regional Health Complex, providing surgical care under general anesthesia. Dedicated to long-term patient relationships, Dr. Poznikoff’s expertise and compassionate care makes him a trusted dental professional in the Drumheller community.
Dr. Claude Boutin, Orthodontist
Dr. Claude Boutin is a Board-Certified Orthodontist with over 35 years of specialized orthodontic care in Calgary and at Riverside Dental Clinic. A University of Alberta graduate, he pursued advanced orthodontic training at the University of Toronto. Dr. Boutin is a Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and an active member of multiple orthodontic associations. Known for staying at the forefront of orthodontic advancements, Dr. Boutin frequently attends national conferences and lectures at prestigious meetings. His dedication to excellence and his involvement in the community solidifies his reputation as a leading orthodontic specialist.
Dr. Ben Thomas, Periodontist
Dr. Ben Thomas is a distinguished Periodontist with a Doctor of Dental Surgery, a Master of Public Health, and a Specialty Certificate in Periodontics from the University of North Carolina. With IV Sedation and Advanced Cardiac Life Support certifications, Dr. Thomas provides comprehensive periodontal care, including implant placement, gum grafting, and periodontal regeneration. A fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and a member of several prestigious periodontal organizations, Dr. Thomas stays at the forefront of periodontal advancements. His dedication to patient care and extensive expertise makes him a trusted professional at Riverside Dental Clinic.
