Oral health means having robust gum tissue as well as strong teeth. Healthy gums also frame your smile beautifully and contribute to overall wellness. At Dominion Street Dental in Alliston, ON, Dr. Oksana Vozna performs periodontal surgery to keep patients “in the pink.”
Dangers of gum disease
Gingivitis, the initial stage of gum disease is characterized by puffy, discolored tissue that bleeds when you brush. It can be easy to ignore because there is little discomfort. However, harmful bacteria are continually producing acidic excretions that irritate gums even more, creating periodontal pockets around teeth. This allows pathogens to make their way deeper, attacking connective ligaments and bone.
Without treatment, the condition advances to periodontitis. Breath becomes foul and you may feel tenderness or pain when chewing. Teeth get loose and must be extracted (if they don’t fall out on their own). Meanwhile bacteria enter the bloodstream, triggering systemic inflammation. Periodontal disease increases risk of diabetes, heart attack, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and other serious conditions.
Fight gum disease with periodontal surgery in Alliston, ON
After a thorough evaluation of your oral health, Dr. Vozna may recommend periodontal surgery. She is trained in techniques to:
- Eradicate bacteria below the gum line
- Smooth tooth roots
- Reshape bone (if needed)
- Remove diseased gum tissue
- Supplement soft tissue with grafting if necessary
This treatment promotes a healthy seal of gums to teeth and gets bacterial infection under control. Then, a good home care regimen, nutritious diet, and regular professional cleanings help you maintain periodontal health.
Cosmetic gingival surgery
Even healthy gum tissue may benefit from esthetic surgery. Bruxing or aggressive brushing can cause gums to recede. That makes teeth look disproportionately long and exposes sensitive root surfaces are prone to decay. Dr. Vozna performs grafting surgery to reverse gum recession.
Some people have excess gum tissue, which makes teeth appear too short. Or, instead of a clean scallop above each tooth, gums have a ragged edge. Dr. Vozna addresses these cosmetic issues with periodontal surgery, as well.