Gum Disease Treatment in Surrey

What is Gum Disease?

Also called periodontal disease, gum disease is a progressive infection that destroys the connective tissues that secure gums to teeth. Approximately half of the population suffers from gum disease. In the earliest stage, the condition is known as gingivitis and may or may not present symptoms such as swelling, redness, and tenderness of the gums. Advanced stages involve tissue necrosis, halitosis, and tooth loss. Early detection and treatment can halt the progression of gum disease, and Dr. Chohan can potentially reverse any damage.

Gum disease develops as a result of built-up bacteria, such as that in plaque and calcified plaque (tartar or calculus). The bacteria erode gum tissue and connective tissue, allowing plaque, tartar, and additional bacteria to infect tissues below the gum line. As these tissues deteriorate, teeth can loosen or fall out. Studies have shown that gum disease increases a person’s risk of other health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and Alzheimer’s disease. Furthermore, gum disease can create complications for pregnant women and diabetics.

Who Needs Gum Disease Treatment?

At your dental cleaning, we will probe your gum pockets to determine their depth. This sounds intimidating, but the process is quick and comfortable. If we find that your pockets are deeper than they should be, Dr. Chohan may suggest a change to your home care routine or a deep cleaning and periodontal maintenance program. Since gum disease is chronic, once you develop the condition, you will be prone to flare-ups throughout your life. Periodontal maintenance, therefore, is essential to continuing good oral health. Can Gum Disease be Treated? Yes! Absolutely.

What is the Treatment for Gum Disease?

Most often, the first steps to treating gum disease involve scaling and root planning. We call this combined treatment a deep cleaning. Scaling teeth involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line. To plan teeth roots, rough areas are filled smooth. This reduces the risk of bacteria build-up on teeth roots. If a patient experiences advanced gum disease, called severe periodontitis, specialist treatment by a periodontist may be advised.

What to Expect Following Treatment

Periodontal maintenance requires dental hygiene visits, as often as advised. At these appointments, we will clean teeth and assess gum pocket depth. A reduction in pocket depth signifies healing. You may be instructed to use special mouth rinse and toothpaste in your home care efforts, as well. Once your gums have healed, you can resume regular, six-month cleanings and checkups. However, if you ever notice changes in your gum tissue, a dental visit is warranted.

Book an Appointment Now!

Call us to book an appointment if you are concerned about the health of your gums.  It is very important to schedule regular teeth cleanings and practice good dental hygiene to prevent these types of issues. You may also be interested in our other preventative services including TMJ treatment, or tooth extractions, including wisdom teeth removal.

Afraid of undergoing certain dental procedures? Not to worry!  We also provide sleep dentistry to help make you as comfortable as possible.

Our dental office serves patients from Surrey, Delta, White Rock, Langley, and surrounding communities.