Inflammation of the gingival tissues (gingivitis) and inflammation of gums and supporting structures of the teeth (periodontitis), are caused by the presence of bacteria and a combination of contributing factors. These factors include:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Dry mouth
- Systemic health condition
- Hereditary risk factors
- Smoking
Having regular dental cleanings and practicing good oral hygiene can help prevent, control and maintain gum and bone health. If gum disease goes untreated, it may lead to bone loss, tooth mobility and eventual tooth loss. In addition, it can affect overall body health and has been linked for 50+ medical conditions including heart disease and Alzheimer’s.
Everyone’s dental hygiene needs are unique to the individual – we will work with you to develop a hygiene maintenance plan specifically fit to your needs.
Our teeth are naturally protected and continuously strengthened by our saliva. Saliva contains buffers, minerals and antibacterial factors that help to reduce the negative effects of acids, bacteria and friction on teeth. Overtime, some of the mineral with the help of bacteria form a chalky looking scale on the tooth called calculus (commonly referred to as tartar). Calculus is usually the same colour as our teeth, although it can also be various shades of brown or even black in some cases.When these deposits exist on the tooth surfaces above the gumline its removal is called scaling. However, calculus can also be attached to the root surfaces below the gumline. The removal of root surface calculus is called root planing.
Prophylaxis is a medical treatment designed to maintain a patient’s health and prevent the spread of disease. In dental terms, this refers to the cleaning of teeth to help prevent tooth decay and periodontal or gum disease, applying caries-preventing agents, checking for signs of food impaction which may have cause damage to the teeth and the maintenance of dental prostheses and restorations. Dental prophylaxis involves plaque and calculus detection, removal and dental polishing.