The research is convincing – gum disease is linked to many systemic diseases. Learn how soft tissue management by a Brampton dentist can help manage gum disease associated with many of these diseases.
WHAT IS GUM DISEASE?
Soft tissue management helps to fix problems with gum disease. Early gum disease is called Gingivitis and is reversible with thorough and proper oral care. Comprehensive oral care should include brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least daily. Gingivitis is caused by a build-up of plaque, which is why it is essential to have regular dental visits and dental hygiene cleanings. If gingivitis goes without treatment, it turns into a condition called Periodontitis. This condition destroys your gums and the bone that supports your teeth. This is permanent damage and cannot be reversed without dental surgery. The leading cause of adult tooth loss is due to Periodontal disease.
HOW DOES GUM DISEASE AFFECT ME?
75% of adults are affected by periodontal disease at some point in their life. Periodontal disease affects more than just your mouth. Clinical evidence indicates that the bacteria which causes periodontal disease is also associated with other health issues such as heart disease, stroke and diabetes.
HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE GUM DISEASE
In the starting stage, periodontal disease causes little or no pain. This means that the signs and symptoms such as puffy gums and bleeding may not be noticed. If you do not have thorough removal of the plaque through a dental hygiene cleaning, the disease will continue to grow and cause more damage. Periodontal disease left untreated may result in extensive bone destruction and possible tooth loss. It is essential to detect and treat perdiodontal disease with proper home oral care to manage the disease.
WHAT DOES SOFT TISSUE MANAGEMENT DO FOR ME?
Soft tissue management is a structured and organized system that helps in the early detection, and non-surgical treatment of the starting phase of periodontal disease. Soft Tissue Management or STM also helps to maintain your oral health. STM also helps in early detection of changes to the mouth’s tissues as they are related to oral cancer. A dental hygienist and dentist perform the STM treatment. The goal of the procedure is to reduce infection and inflammation. It also teaches and makes recommendations specifically for you, so that you can maintain your oral health at home.
THE GOALS OF SOFT TISSUE MANAGEMENT:
• Fresh breath
• Improved Taste
• Reduction of deep areas in the mouth (pockets)
• Gums that are not tender, red or bleed easily
• Management and control of periodontal disease
• Personalized cleaning recommendations to maintain good oral hygiene at home
WHAT DO I NEED TO DO?
You need to commit to improving your health in the long term. We partner with you and engage you actively in restoring your oral health and maintaining it for life. 75% to 80% of your success in the soft tissue management program is based on your home care, 20% to 25% is based on the treatment you will receive in the dental office by the dental hygienist or dentist. It is essential to have regular dental cleanings every 3 to 4 months to maintain your progress and to prevent a relapse in your oral health condition.
HOW DO I GET STARTED?
Schedule a consultation to talk about your oral health care needs. We look forward to seeing you!
About Dr. Joseph Salvaggio
Located in Brampton, Ontario Dr. Joseph Salvaggio has been practicing general, cosmetic, and implant dentistry for over 20 years. He enjoys interacting with his patients and helping to restore their oral health for better overall health as well. Meeting new patients, interacting and educating them is one of Dr. Salvaggio’s biggest joys. We encourage you to read our reviews or call us with any dental questions you have. We look forward to speaking with you and meeting you soon.