Periodontal Therapy North York

Periodontal or gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth, including inflammation and infection of gums, ligaments, and bone. It is a leading cause of tooth loss in Canadian adults, and studies indicate that at least 75% of North Americans over age 35 have some form of periodontal disease. Gingivitis (gums disease) and periodontitis (gums and bone disease) are the two main forms of periodontal disease.

Good oral hygiene and regular dental examinations are essential in prevention and early detection of gum disease – which sometimes develops without any warning signs, and can actually remain undetected until it becomes severe. For example, in a recent study, 8 out of 10 people surveyed believed they did not have periodontal disease, but 7 out of 10 exhibited one or more symptoms.

Symptoms of gum disease

• Bad breath
• Gum recession
• Gums that are swollen or bleed easily
• Sensitivity of teeth and gums

Addressing these conditions as early as possible is the best way to retain your natural teeth. A professional deep dental cleaning (scaling and root planing) targets bacteria and debris that irritate the gum tissue. In some cases your dentist may also need to implement procedures such as bone grafting or locally placed antibiotics.

AlloDerm® Gum Grafting at Stonebrook Dental

Gum grafting with AlloDerm® is a modern, non-invasive treatment option for receding gums. AlloDerm® is a patented collagen material that is applied over the recessed areas of the receding gum line and has been specifically designed to restore tooth coverage and to protect the roots of your teeth. AlloDerm® is a versatile medical product used in medicine and dentistry for both plastic and reconstructive surgery. What do clients love about gum grafting with AlloDerm®? It eliminates the need to take tissue from other parts of your mouth to remedy any gum line recession or tooth exposure.

Dr. Nubia Diaz is an experienced North York Dentist and has had excellent results using AlloDerm® to help people with receding gum lines. Dr. Diaz was trained by Dr. Edward P. Allen, a renowned American Periodontist who teaches advanced clinical techniques in oral plastic surgery and soft tissue grafting with AlloDerm®.

Receding Gums and Periodontal Disease

When the border of gum tissue that surrounds your teeth wears away, the root of your teeth may become exposed. The first sign of gingivitis or periodontitis (periodontal disease) is often receding gums. Treating gum recession is important not only for your comfort, but to also preserve the health of your teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth decay and other oral conditions such as a poor bite, sore jaw, periodontal disease and tooth loss.

Periodontal disease can progress and destroy gum tissue very rapidly, thus producing a receding gum line. When a large amount of gum tissue is lost in a short span of time, gum grafting with AlloDerm® can help halt tissue and bone loss. Thus, preventing further problems and protecting exposed roots from further decay.

If you are experiencing a painful, receding gum line, schedule an appointment with North York Family Dentist Dr. Diaz by calling 416-636-4227 today.

Why Do I Have Receding Gums?

There are several causes for receding gums including:

• Periodontal disease
• Overly aggressive tooth brushing
• Inadequate brushing and flossing (ie. ineffective cleaning)
• Genetics: Some people may be more susceptible to gum disease, hormonal changes, smoking, grinding and clenching, crooked teeth or a misaligned bite
• Body piercing of the lip or tongue.

Call Dr. Diaz at Stonebrook Dental today to schedule an AlloDerm® gum grafting consultation 416-636-4227.

How Does AlloDerm® For Gum Grafting Work?

AlloDerm® may be a treatment option for you to restore coverage of your exposed tooth and/or root surfaces. Gum grafting with AlloDerm® will help you:

• Reduce teeth sensitivity
• Improve the appearance of your teeth and smile
• Improve gum health
• Preserve your teeth

These photos are an example of how AlloDerm® is applied underneath the gums. The gum tissue will be pulled down to cover the AlloDerm® and stitches will be used to keep everything in place during the healing process. Note that no incisions or cuts on the gum tissue were made.

AlloDerm® Gum Grafting Procedure and Recovery

On the day before an AlloDerm® gum grafting procedure, a patient will start both a prescription antibiotic and anti-inflammatory to help ensure a smooth recovery. Both of these prescription medications will be taken until finished and will assist in preventing infection in the newly inserted gum graft and reduce swelling in the surrounding tissue. We also recommend that ice is consistently applied to the area to avoid further swelling.

The gum grafting procedure has been described by our patients as one that causes minimal discomfort for the first few days — but not pain.

For the first 24 hours, it is imperative for the patient to minimize activity. We recommend relaxing at home, watching television, or reading a book. After 24 hours, you may resume your regular activities. Heavy exercise should not be attempted for at least 1 week post surgery. This allows the blood pressure to remain within a normal range and will help prevent any extra blood pooling at the site of the gum grafting procedure.

It is imperative to avoid chewing, brushing or flossing near the area of gum grafting. We will provide you with a prescription anti-bacterial rinse, which can be used 4-6 times a day to keep the grafted area clean. This will be used for 2-3 weeks. After 6-8 weeks, sutures around the grafted area will be removed.

Learn more about gum grafting with AlloDerm® today – make an appointment with North York Dentist Dr. Diaz by calling 416-636-4227!

To ensure that your oral health remains optimal, schedule regular check-ups and periodontal disease screenings at Stonebrook Dental in North York.

At Stonebrook Dental we often treat patients with periodontal disease. Please call us at (416) 636-4227 and book your check-up and screening appointment.