PERIODONTICS

Gum Health Affects Your Overall Health

Periodontal (Gum) disease is not only the leading cause of tooth loss, but also has been shown to raise the risk factor for several potential health issues including stroke and heart disease. While gum disease typically begins with gingivitis, half of Americans aged 30 and above (64 million) have a more advanced form of gum disease known as periodontitis.

Common Symptoms of Gum Disease

Sometimes the early stages of gum disease can be invisible and painless. However, here is a brief list of some common and noticeable symptoms:

  • Swollen/red gums
  • Tender gums
  • Loose Teeth
  • Toothaches
  • Receding gums
  • Bad breath
  • Bleeding from brushing

The Stages of Periodontal Disease

Stage 1 – Gingivitis

Inflammation from bacteria may cause gums to be red, swell, and bleed. If you have any of these symptoms, we highly recommend you seek treatment at Lakeshore Dental Specialists as soon as possible. It is best for your oral and overall health to intervene when the disease is in the gingivitis stage.

Stage 2 – Periodontitis

Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to the next stage. Periodontitis occurs when gums begin to separate from the teeth leading to infected pockets. Toxins from the bacteria combined with the body’s response to the infection can erode supporting bone and tissue, eventually causing tooth loss. Treatment from a Periodontist is required at this stage.

Treatment  Options

Non-surgical Treatments such as deep cleaning with scaling and root planning.

Surgical Treatment

  • Osseous surgery, sometimes referred to as pocket reduction surgery or gingivectomy, refers to a number of different surgeries aimed at gaining access to the tooth roots to remove tartar and disease-causing bacteria. This approach can reduce bacterial spread, prevent bone loss, enhance the smile, and facilitate more effective home hygiene care.
  • Guided regeneration can help you regain a healthy gum line and bone structure. Our specialists at Lakeshore Dental Specialists surgically position barrier membranes under your gums to promote healthy tissue growth and bone regeneration.

Laser Periodontal Therapy

  • A specialized laser removes infected gum tissue and bacteria from the pockets around the teeth. We recommend this treatment during routine periodontal visits to prevent infection because prevention is the cure.

Laser Periodontal Therapy

  • Precise treatment
  • Minimally invasive
  • Reduces the risk of infection
  • Minimal pain and swelling
  • Shorter recovery time

Gum Recession Treatment
including

  • Connective tissue grafting
  • Free gingival grafting
  • Tunneling technique
  • Pinhole technique

Gingivectomy

A gingivectomy is a simple procedure that involves removing and shaping your excess gum tissue. After injecting local anesthetic to numb the area, our specialists gently scale back your enlarged gum tissue with a laser tool or scalpel. A suction tool is placed in your mouth to collect any saliva. The procedure is minimally painful and takes just a few minutes to perform.

Dental Hygiene

Since prevention is the cure and what we strive for, ensuring proper dental hygiene at home plays a crucial role in maintaining your overall health in the long run. Our team at Lakeshore Dental Specialists is dedicated to assisting each patient with maximizing their oral health. Optimizing your oral health goes beyond achieving a healthier mouth; it positively impacts your overall well-being.

StellaLife Oral Care

StellaLife Oral Care is a system of homeopathic treatments used both before and after dental procedures for quicker recovery and less pain.

OTHER OPTIONS

  • Frenectomy
  • Crown Lengthening
  • Occlusal Mouthguards

WE CAN’T WAIT TO MEET YOU

Call 586-777-0260 or request an appointment online to set up your first visit. We’ll be in touch soon.