About Gum Disease
A silent disease.
Gum disease is described as swelling, soreness or infection of the tissues supporting the teeth. There are two main forms of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis.
Learn More Treatment FaqAre you at risk of developing gum disease?
The following list of attributes can enhance the risk of gum disease:
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Poor Oral Hygiene
- Aging
- Genetic Predisposition
- Systemic Diseases
- Stress
- Inadequate Nutrition
- Puberty
- Hormonal Fluctuations
- Pregnancy
- Substance Abuse
- HIV Infection
- Certain Medications
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the earliest form of periodontal disease. When our oral hygiene practices are inadequate, plaque will accumulate around our teeth and gums. The bacteria in plaque triggers our immune system, and our gums to become red, swollen and bleed easily. Gingivitis is easily treatable with professional treatment and good oral home care. There is very little discomfort at this stage of periodontal disease.
Periodontitis
Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection, affecting your gums.
Periodontal disease (gum disease) is a disease caused by a bacterial infection. It results in the loss of bone and soft tissue support which can lead to tooth loss. It often goes unnoticed for years because it is usually painless until it reaches its most severe forms. If untreated, periodontal disease can result in extensive destruction of the gums and bone in your mouth. However, it can be managed under careful monitoring by your Periodontist.
You're Not Alone
Periodontal disease affects 50% of the population over the age of 50. Unfortunately this disease also affects our younger population but in a more severe form. Both conditions require considerate treatment and careful monitoring for the patient’s lifetime. Fortunately, this is our speciality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes periodontal disease (Periodontitis)?
Periodontitis is caused by any condition that promotes bacterial infection around teeth. These include a patient’s medical condition, not adhering to ongoing maintenance, or a lack of adequate oral hygiene.
What will increase my risk of getting Periodontitis?
Any factors that increase bacterial growth will increase your risks of periodontitis. The major risk factors include:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Smoking
- Poorly controlled diabetes
- Non-compliance with prescribed hygiene maintenance program
Other risk factors include:
- Aging
- Genetic predisposition
- Systemic diseases and conditions
- Stress
- Inadequate nutrition
- Puberty
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Pregnancy
- Substance abuse
- HIV infection
- Certain medications
How is Periodontitis diagnosed?
- Patient symptoms may include: pain, tooth mobility, bad taste, and bleeding gums. It is important to note that in most cases there may be no symptoms noticed.
- Signs observed by your dentist or hygienist include: suppuration (pus), bleeding, progressive bone loss, and increasing probing depths around all or some teeth.
Do I have Periondontal disease?
To protect your oral health, learn to recognize the signs of infection. Periodontal disease symptoms include:
- red, inflamed gums
- bleeding gums
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Chronic bad breath
- Pus around teeth and gums
- Changes in bite
How is Periodontitis treated?
There are multiple ways in which periodontitis can be addressed, both surgically and non-surgically. The precise treatment plan depends on your unique conditions. In most cases a regular hygiene regimen with antimicrobial and anti-microbiotic therapies are prescribed. In some cases periodontal surgery is needed.
What are the consequences if Periodontitis is not treated?
Often the initial symptoms of Periodontitis are very mild and may not be noticed by the patient. Without treatment, the disease progresses, bacteria infect the gums and bone, at which point the teeth can become loose and may have to be removed.
Can I get peridontitis around an implant?
Same as with our teeth, bacterial infections can affect the tissue around an implant. This is a similar disease called peri-implantitis. Adhering to your prescribed hygiene regimen is the most important action to prevent this from happening to you. If you think you may have a problem with your implant(s) (pain or tenderness, bleeding, mobility, difficulty cleaning) contact us and we can help.
Contact Us
Our front office team will assist with scheduling your appointments, and processing dental insurance claims. We will answer all your question and concerns before any treatment begins. We strive to ensure our patients receive the most conservative treatment plan that will lead to the best treatment outcome. You do not need a referral to have a consultation.
Global Speaking Engagements and the Caudry Education Centre
Over the past 20 years Dr. Caudry has travelled the world imparting her knowledge, research, and technical skills to other Dental professionals.
Today Dr. Caudry carries on the tradition of using her exceptionally high level of education and surgical skills to the benefit of her patients while sharing those skills and experiences with her colleagues so they too can provide her knowledge and techniques to their patients.
Learn More