When you visit your hygienist for your dental cleaning and examination appointment , she will do an evaluation of your teeth, gum and bone health. She will take measurements of your gum tissue and share her information with Dr. Slepchik during your dental exam with him as part of the appointment. You may be diagnosed with periodontal disease; We understand that you may be worried about what this means and how it needs to be treated. Periodontal disease, also referred to as gum disease, is an infection that can spread throughout the mouth and may cause patients to experience a variety of issues, including the following:
• Persistent bad breath
• Swollen and red gum tissue
• Painful gum tissue
• Toothaches
• Loose or lost teeth
• Shrinking gum tissue
• Bleeding while brushing and/or flossing
Why should periodontal disease be treated early?
There are many different stages of periodontal disease that need to be addressed as soon as possible. The earlier stages of the condition are easier to treat. Most patients will find that they can address the condition with more frequent dental cleanings, antibiotics, and more intensive at-home treatment to keep it from becoming more serious. As periodontal disease progresses by being left untreated or ignored, the more likely it is to cause permanent—and expensive—damage to the teeth, bone, and gums. Early intervention is essential for maintaining as much healthy structure as possible and to avoid further damage from this infection.
How is periodontal disease diagnosed?
Your hygienist, Kinga or Caroline, along with Dr Slepchik, will evaluate your mouth to give you an understanding of what stage of periodontal disease your mouth is in. This also allows him to determine the best possible course of treatment. The earlier stages of periodontal disease can be improved with a thorough cleaning and increased home care. The later stages, however, may require more invasive procedures such as a periodontal cleaning appointment. This appointment with your hygienist will include a deeper cleaning and scaling in each section of the mouth along with the administration of antibiotics to control the infection. This requires 4 appointments of 1 hour each along with an evaluation appointment of 30 minutes. You may need to return every 3 months to your hygienist for a cleaning to help maintain the health of your tissue. If teeth are now missing, patients will need to discuss tooth replacement options such as implants or bridges, which will restore the function, appearance, and health of the smile following periodontal disease.
Learn more about the care and treatment of periodontal disease
Contact Dr. Lenny Slepchik and his team in downtown Montreal to learn more about the advantages of treating periodontal disease quickly. Our practice is located in Suite 310 at 800 Boul. Rene-Levesque O., next to the Queen Elizabeth Hotel. To reserve a convenient appointment, please email us at reception@smilesbydrslepchik.com using our contact form or call our front desk concierges at (514) 875-7971 We look forward to meeting and exceeding your expectations.