While periodontal disease is caused by plaque, a number of other factors, including poorly fitting bridges, badly aligned teeth, and defective fillings contribute to the development of this condition. Our dental hygiene program pays extra special attention to the potential problems of periodontal disease. We constantly monitor and record any changes that may show early signs of problems.
Gum Disease
While seldom painful and frequently free of any obvious signs or symptoms, periodontal disease can progress, undetected, to the point where supporting bone is destroyed. With 80 to 90% of all teenagers having some form of gingivitis (inflamed gums) and 75% of adult tooth loss for people over the age of 35 due to periodontal disease, early treatment and prevention is essential.
Signs that you may have gum disease include:
- Gums that are red, swollen, tender, bleed easily or have pulled away from the teeth
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste
- Loose or separating teeth
- A change in the way your teeth fit together
- A change in the fit of partial dentures
Your risk of developing gum disease may relate to the following habits and conditions:
- Tobacco smoking or chewing
- Systemic diseases such as diabetes
- Medications such as steroids, anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs and calcium channel blockers
- Pregnancy or use of oral contraceptives
- Crooked teeth
- Worn bridges or fillings
Root Canal Therapy (Endodontics)
If a tooth’s pulp (nerve and blood supply) becomes infected or inflamed, root canal treatment may be the only way to save the tooth, short of removing it. Root canal treatment consists of removing the nerve that lies at the root of the tooth. Root canal treatment may be an effective treatment for a toothache.
Bite Guards
Many people have harmful habits during their sleep. Grinding of the teeth (bruzism) can flatten one’s teeth. A custom fitted night guard can be made to prevent this excessive wear.
TMJ Therapy
TMJ Dysfunction is a popular term to describe a disorder of the jaw joints or the muscles that control the joints. Symptoms masquerade as a multitude of other problems such as sinus headaches migraines, neck and shoulder stiffness and earaches. This can be successfully treated with TMJ Therapy.
Bad Breath
Bad Breath or Halitosis can be a serious problem and source of embarrassment and shame. Some people are not even aware there’s a problem. Nearly all bad breath originates from the mouth, mostly from the surface of the tongue, below the gum line, between the teeth and other hard to reach areas. The mouth is normally inhabited by bacteria and the balance between the different kinds of bacteria determines the quality of your breath.
These are steps to help treat bad breath:
- Brush and floss using a chlorine dioxide toothpaste (avoid toothpaste containing sodium laryl sulphate)
- Use an oral mouthwash containing chlorine dioxide (gargle as well)
- Use a tongue scraper to remove any white coating as far back as you can.
- Regular professional cleanings.
- Drink lots of water!