Gum care

Gum care

The entire team at Dentistes Outremont is committed to your oral health, and places particular emphasis on preventing potential problems. Taking care of your gums is the key to optimal oral health! Our professionals are here to offer you follow-up (preventive) care as well as curative or restorative treatments. 
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The periodontium, an essential set of tissues 

The periodontium is the structure that holds teeth in place in the mouth. It's made up of the gums, the best-known part, but also the periodontal ligament, cementum (the tissue covering the tooth roots) and alveolar bone (where the tooth is attached). The health of this structure is essential for the proper maintenance of your teeth! Unfortunately, it can also be affected by disease. 
Le parodonte, un ensemble de tissus essentiel
Les maladies des gencives

Gum disease

The main diseases of the gums and periodontium are gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums which, if left untreated, can develop into periodontitis, i.e. a deep infection sometimes affecting all periodontal tissues. 

Periodontitis is mainly due to the accumulation of plaque (a deposit of food residues, saliva, and bacteria) and tartar (a hardened version of plaque), which weakens the oral balance and causes inflammation, which can become chronic. Plaque and tartar form for a number of reasons: 

  • A diet high in sugar and acids;
  • Poor dental hygiene;
  • Alcohol and smoking;
  • Certain diseases such as diabetes;
  • Certain drugs and antibiotics;
  • Genetic predisposition.

The symptoms

How do you recognize gum disease? Gingivitis is a sneaky disease, and it can be difficult to spot the first symptoms. However, if you notice bleeding when brushing or flossing, or unusual swelling or redness of the gums, consult your Outremont dental clinic right away! Gingivitis is reversible, and our professionals can provide you with the right advice and treatment.
Signs of periodontitis include : 
  • Loosening of the teeth (you can see the roots)
  • Hypersensitive teeth
  • Wobbling or spacing of teeth;
  • More frequent and sustained bleeding; 
  • Chronic bad breath;
  • Functional pain.
Periodontitis can have serious consequences, such as gum recession and tooth loss. Although periodontitis is not reversible, your dentist will be able to halt its progression. Don't hesitate to make an appointment with our team for an assessment of your condition! 
Les symptomes de gencives
Les traitements offerts

Treatment options

Gingivitis and periodontitis are diseases to be taken seriously! The best thing to do is to prevent them by seeing your dentist regularly for a follow-up examination, preferably every six months. 

Once inflammation has set in, your dentist or dental hygienist at our Outremont clinic can suggest a thorough cleaning to remove the tartar and plaque responsible. If the infection is more serious, an antiseptic mouthwash or antibiotic treatment may be prescribed.

In severe cases, you may require more invasive procedures, such as :
  • Closed curettage, performed without incisions, which uses ultrasound to clean out subgingival calculus;
  • Open curettage, a surgical procedure that thoroughly cleans under the gum;
  • Reconstructive surgery of the gums or alveolar bone. 

Preventive measures

Fortunately, gum disease can be prevented by adopting good oral hygiene habits! We recommend, among other things;
  • Having a routine check-up and cleaning every six months or so;
  • Brushing your teeth at least twice a day, for at least two minutes;
  • Daily flossing;
  • Avoid foods that contribute to the proliferation of bacteria in the mouth.

Our passionate professionals will be happy to provide you with precise advice tailored to your needs. The health of your gums is essential: trust your Outremont clinic to take the best possible care of them!

Des mesures de prévention
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Prenez note que pour le congé des Fêtes, la clinique sera fermée du 23 décembre au 7 janvier, inclusivement. Nous serons de retour le 8 janvier avec notre horaire habituel.