Periodontal Care
maintain function, health, and appearance
What is “Periodontal ‘Gum’ Disease”?
Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that spreads from the gums to destroy the jaw bone supporting our teeth. Periodontal disease is a chronic infection with a multi-factorial etiology. Personal oral hygiene, genetics, systemic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and even pregnancy can all trigger periodontal disease progression. At its core however, periodontal disease is initiated by bacterial plaque. If this oral bacterial film is not removed daily through effective brushing and flossing, inflammation develops around the gums. In its early and reversible stage, periodontal disease is defined as gingivitis, inflammation of the gums often associated with bleeding, red and sore gums. Fortunately, through effective personal oral hygiene coupled with professional periodontal maintenance care, gingivitis is reversible.
Should inflammation however be permitted to persist, permanent destruction to the gum tissue that attaches the teeth to the surrounding bone occurs. If left undisturbed, bacteria invade beyond the gum line into the jaw bone. With time, as the infection worsens, gums recede and teeth loosen. The best approach remains prevention. At each visit, I will thoroughly evaluate your gum health by measuring jaw bone levels using x-rays and specialized instruments. Removal of tartar (calculus) above and below the gum line to supplement your twice daily brushing and flossing is essential.
Should gum disease become severe, referral to a specialist in periodontal disease (periodontist), is advised to best manage and treat the disease. Maintaining healthy gums is a critical component to your general-systemic health.
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Frequently Asked Questions
It is an infection of the gums and bone that support your teeth. Caught early, at the gingivitis stage, it is often reversible, which is why early care matters.
Bleeding gums when you brush or floss, redness, swelling, persistent bad breath, or teeth that feel loose. If you notice these, book a consultation and Dr. Novack can assess your gum health and recommend the best next steps for you.
Yes. We provide periodontal care, from early-stage treatment through ongoing maintenance, and we will recommend the right level of care for your situation. The best place to start is a consultation, so we can assess your gums and map out the best next steps for you. Call (416) 224-2114.
Treatment ranges from a deep cleaning, known as scaling and root planing, for early-stage disease, to more advanced periodontal therapy for advanced cases. Dr. Novack will assess your gums at a consultation and recommend the care that is right for you.
Cost depends on how advanced the disease is and what treatment is required. Dr. Novack provides a clear, personalized quote after your exam. Call (416) 224-2114.
