Page 4 - Boyne Dental E-Mag

Prevention:
Prevention of periodontal disease requires good oral hygiene, possible use of antimicrobial
mouthwashes and the regular review of a dentist. Particularly those with diabetes who are more
likely to develop infections of the gum and periodontal disease. Other risk factors include puberty
and pregnancy as well as bruxism (clenching and grinding of teeth) which can put stress on the
structures around the teeth and loosen them. Smoking is also a significant factor in the develop-
ment and progression of periodontal disease; this is another opportunity to think about stopping
smoking.
Daily oral hygiene measures to prevent periodontal disease include:
 Brushing properly on a regular basis (at least twice daily), with the patient attempting to di-
rect the toothbrush bristles underneath the gum line, helps disrupt the bacterial growth and
formation of plaque.
 Flossing daily, as well as cleaning behind the last tooth, the third molar, in each quarter
 Visit a dental practitioner or dental hygienist regularly

Repair/Treatment

There are four types of periodontal surgery:

 Pocket reduction surgery - folds back the gum tissue and removes the bacteria before securing
the tissue into place. In some cases, irregular surfaces of the damaged bone are smoothed to
limit areas where bacteria are hidden. This allows the gum tissue to reattach to healthy bone.
 Regenerative procedures - these fold back the gum tissue and remove the bacteria. Mem-
branes, bone grafts or tissue-stimulating proteins can be used to encourage the ability to re-
generate bone and tissue.
 Crown lengthening - is a procedure to remove excess gum and bone tissue to reshape and ex-
pose more of the natural tooth. This can be done to one tooth, to even the gum line, or to sev-
eral teeth to expose a natural, broad smile. It is a restorative or cosmetic dental procedure. If
the tooth is decayed or broken below the gum line, or has insufficient tooth structure for a res-
toration, it can be extracted and a bridge can be used.
 Soft tissue grafts - stop further dental problems and gum recession and improve the aesthetics
of the gum line. Soft tissue grafts can be used to cover roots or develop gum tissue where ab-

sent due to excessive gingival recession. Gum tissue from the palate or another donor source
covers the exposed root. This can be done for one tooth or several teeth to even the gum line
and reduce sensitivity. A soft tissue graft can reduce further recession and bone loss. In some
cases, it can cover exposed roots to protect them from decay. This may reduce tooth sensitivity
and improve the aesthetics of the smile.