Periodontics

main-perio

Periodontics in Edmonton

Your gums are an integral part of your mouth. A lot depends on your gums – they protect the roots of your teeth from infection and injury. They’re also vulnerable to infections that can lead to gum disease, a serious condition that has been linked to health problems such as heart disease and diabetes. Periodontics is the branch of dentistry involved with the health and care of the gums and the prevention and treatment of gum disease.

Frenectomy

A frenectomy is the surgical removal or alteration of connective tissues in your mouth. These tissues, like the ones connecting your tongue to the floor of your mouth, can be too tight and can cause discomfort. The frenectomy relieves the tightness and brings relief from the discomfort.

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling is the removal of tartar buildup from your teeth. Because tartar can build up under your gums, where it can cause gum inflammation, we need to remove it with special tools.

Root planing is a similar treatment used to remove buildup and rough patches from the roots of your teeth to prevent inflammation and gum infections.

Extractions

Extractions are performed when a tooth can’t be saved by a root canal or other treatment. After the tooth is extracted it can be replaced with a bridge, denture, or dental implant.

Keep your gums healthy. Book a dental examination with us today.

FAQs About Family Periodontics

What is periodontics?
Periodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, including the bone. Periodontists specialize in managing conditions like gingivitis and periodontitis, which can lead to gum inflammation, bone loss, and even tooth loss if untreated. Treatment often includes deep cleaning procedures, surgical interventions, and maintenance therapy. The goal of periodontics is to maintain healthy gums and preserve natural teeth for as long as possible.
Common signs of gum disease include red, swollen, or tender gums, bleeding during brushing or flossing, persistent bad breath, gum recession, and loose teeth. In more advanced stages, patients may notice pus between teeth and gums or changes in bite alignment. Gum disease often develops gradually and may not cause pain in the early stages, which is why regular dental checkups are important. Early detection allows for easier and more effective treatment before serious damage occurs.
Gum disease can be reversed in its early stage, known as gingivitis. At this stage, professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene can restore gum health. However, once it progresses to periodontitis, the damage to bone and supporting tissues cannot be fully reversed, but it can be managed and controlled. Treatment can stop further progression and improve gum health, but ongoing maintenance is required to prevent recurrence.
Periodontal disease is treated based on severity. Early stages may require professional cleanings and improved oral hygiene practices. More advanced cases often involve deep cleaning procedures such as scaling and root planing to remove bacteria and tartar below the gumline. In severe cases, surgical treatments may be needed to restore gum and bone health. Ongoing maintenance visits are essential to control infection and prevent disease progression.
Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing the tooth roots. Common causes include gum disease, aggressive brushing, poor oral hygiene, teeth grinding, and genetic factors. It can also result from misaligned teeth or insufficient gum tissue. Recession increases sensitivity and risk of decay. Treatment may involve improved oral care, gum grafting, or addressing underlying causes such as bite issues or periodontal disease.
Yes, bleeding gums can be a sign of an underlying problem, most commonly gingivitis or early gum disease. While occasional minor bleeding may occur from aggressive brushing or flossing, frequent bleeding should not be ignored. If untreated, it can progress to more serious periodontal disease, leading to gum recession and tooth loss. Early dental evaluation is important to determine the cause and prevent further complications.
Yes, periodontics can often save teeth that are at risk due to gum disease or bone loss. Through treatments like deep cleaning, surgical procedures, and maintenance therapy, periodontists can control infection and stabilize the supporting structures of teeth. While severely damaged teeth may not always be saved, early and consistent periodontal care greatly improves the chances of preserving natural teeth long-term.
Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a non-surgical periodontal treatment used to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline. Scaling removes buildup from tooth surfaces, while root planing smooths the root surfaces to help gums reattach. This procedure helps reduce inflammation, control infection, and promote healing in patients with gum disease. It is often performed under local anesthesia for comfort.
Gum disease can be prevented through good oral hygiene practices such as brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and using antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended. Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings are essential for removing plaque and tartar buildup. A healthy diet and avoiding tobacco also play important roles in maintaining gum health. Early detection and consistent care are key to preventing gum disease from developing or progressing.
Yes, smoking has a significant negative impact on gum health. It reduces blood flow to the gums, weakens the immune system, and slows healing, making it harder to fight infections. Smokers are at a much higher risk of developing gum disease and experiencing tooth loss. Smoking can also mask symptoms like bleeding gums, delaying diagnosis and treatment. Quitting smoking greatly improves gum health and overall oral health outcomes.

 

Thanks for stopping by! We hope this is the beginning of a long and positive dental health journey. Please take a moment to review some important information about your first appointment with us.

JOIN THE FAMILY

New Patients Welcome!

New Patient Form

At cursus sit ultricies elementum gravida vel curabitur pretium velit lacinia placerat

Dental Office Policy

At cursus sit ultricies elementum gravida vel curabitur pretium velit lacinia placerat

Dental Treatment Consent Form

At cursus sit ultricies elementum gravida vel curabitur pretium velit lacinia placerat