Periodontal Disease

The primary cause of adult tooth loss in Canada is periodontal disease, affecting up to 80% of the population. Food particles, bacteria, and hardened plaque (tartar) can irritate the gums and cause gum infection, which is also known as gum disease. Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, can go undetected without regular check-ups and cleanings. condition begins with minor swelling, redness, and sometimes tenderness, of the gums. As it advances, periodontal disease can cause gum recession, bone loss, tooth loss, and has been linked to other conditions, including strokes, heart attacks, diabetes, and increased risk during pregnancy. Smoking also increases the risk of periodontal disease. Signs and symptoms of periodontal disease are; bleeding gums, loose teeth, new spacing between teeth, persistent bad breath, pus surrounding teeth and gums, receding gums, red and puffy gums, and/or tenderness or discomfort.

We will check your gums for periodontal disease at your check-up or cleaning appointment. If we find that you are at risk, we will suggest preventive measures and recommend periodontal therapy that suits your needs, including scaling, root planning, polishing, and fluoride.

We are proud to offer the state-of-the-art Cerec system to our clients! What is a cerec restoration? In short, it is a crown, veneer, inlay or onlay that is made by a cerec machine. Unlike traditional crown or veneer treatments that require a minimum of 2 appointments, most Cerec restorative methods require only one visit. Once the dentist has prepared your tooth for one of the above restorations, the tooth is scanned by an electronic camera that allows you to see the image on a video screen. The restoration is designed from this scan and then the computer sends the design information to a milling chamber where the restoration is immediately crafted from a solid ceramic block.

1. These restorations are made from ceramic - a natural substance that is particularly compatible with the body. As cerec restorations have no metal, as with traditional PFM (porcelain-fused-to-metal) crowns, they have beautiful translucency and colour - as close as you can get to your natural teeth.

2. Cerec restorations are very hard wearing - for example when undergoing the daily grinding of food. They are not affected by hot or cold, and the ceramic is so smooth that bacteria do not stand a chance!

3. Because the milling of the crown is done by the Cerec, instead of being sent to a local laboratory, this means that your entire restoration can be prepared and cemented at the same appointment. Our patients avoid having to be frozen twice, and do not experience any of the discomfort often associated with temporary restorations. The procedure, including milling time, takes approximately 2 hours, start to finish.