Dr. Kotansky - Scarborough Dentist

Periodontal (gum) disease is caused by a serious infection that can spread around the root of the teeth causing bone reduction and, if left untreated, tooth loss. A skilled dentist will evaluate your condition and depending on its severity, recommend either non-surgical periodontal treatment or gum surgery.

Gum disease goes through several stages. As the disease progresses in severity, the periodontal treatment options become more complex, costly, and time-intensive. It is important that at the first signs of gum disease symptoms you seek an experienced and professional dentist.

Gingivitis

The earliest and mildest form of periodontal disease is gingivitis. Gingivitis is characterized by swelling of the gums. Often, the gums will bleed during normal brushing and flossing. Gingivitis is reversible with professional dental treatment and consistent oral care at home.

Periodontitis

There are several stages of the advanced form of gum disease known as periodontitis:

Aggressive periodontitis is a form of gum disease found in patients who have otherwise good overall oral health. Common signs of aggressive periodontitis include a rapid increase in the size of gum pockets adjacent to the tooth, which lead to bone degradation, puss extruding from gums and shaky or loose teeth. Immediate exam is required to determine the proper cause of periodontitis to help maintain dentition.
Chronic periodontitis is a form of gum disease that requires immediate periodontal treatment. This form of periodontitis causes inflammation within the supporting tissue of the teeth leading to progressive plaque attachment and rapid bone loss. Chronic periodontitis is the most common form of gum disease and although it is prevalent in adults, it can be take hold at any age. If left untreated, this form of gum disease will require gum surgery.
Necrotizing periodontal disease is another form of gum disease. This is an aggressive form of gum disease often seen in people under significant stress. This is characterized by necrosis (death of the supporting tissue) of gingival tissues, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone. Please see the dentist immediately for treatment.

Gums infected with periodontal disease are toxic reservoirs of disease-causing bacteria. These toxins breed and gradually destroy the very jaw bone that supports your teeth. Bleeding gums can create an opening that allows these bacteria to enter your bloodstream and advance to your heart and other organs. There is mounting evidence that connects periodontal disease to problems with the heart.

The number one reason people lose teeth is periodontal disease.

What is the treatment?

If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, we will recommend a period of Active Therapy - a customized approach designed to help arrest this disease by removing hard to reach tartar and allows gum tissue to heal.

Details including treatment benefits and fees will be explained in consultation. Working with your consent and values, we decide together how best to treat and manage this disease. Whether you wish to retain your own natural teeth, or elect to have your teeth replaced with prosthetics as you age, adequate quality jaw bone is still a requirement. The best course of action is to preserve your natural tissue.

Kotansky Dental's Scarborough Dentist, Dr. Kotansky, is here to help you. Contact us today for a consultation.

New Patients Welcome

We are always happy to welcome new patients to our family dental clinic. We are a family oriented oral health practice and welcome young children, teens, adults, and seniors, addressing the unique needs and desires of each age.

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