Periodontal Treatment (Gum Care)

Periodontitis is usually the result of poor dental hygiene, that is why we recommend:

• Brushing at least twice a day

• Flossing daily

• Attending regular check-ups, and visiting us to reduce the chances of developing gum disease.

Not brushing and attending regular check-ups can lead to plaque developing and hardening on the teeth. This may cause an infection leading to gingivitis, bleeding gums and swelling of the gums. Unhealthy gums can threaten not only your oral health but also your overall physical health. Here at Lionhead Smile, we are dedicated to providing quality care to help our patients achieve and maintain healthy gums.

What can cause gum disease ?

• Genetic predisposition for periodontal disease

• Poor home care (thorough daily brushing and flossing)

• Lack of professional cleanings and monitoring

• Lifestyle habits such as tobacco use

What are the typical signs and symptoms of gum disease?

• Bleeding gums

• Bad breath

• Gum recession

• Tooth mobility

• Tooth mobility

• Red or purplish gum colour

• Bad taste in the mouthBad taste in the mouth

• Pus and discharge coming from the gums

Periodontal concerns can extend beyond gum disease to include gum recession and bruxism (teeth grinding). Our team can address periodontal disease with proper treatment options in addition to home care and follow-up dental care. If you would like to learn more about treatments we offer to address gum disease, or if you would like to schedule a consultation, please contact our practice today.

Halitosis (Bad Breath Care)

Everyone occasionally experiences halitosis (bad breath). For example, morning breath is a common condition caused by the reduced saliva flow at night (saliva helps wash away food and bacteria in the mouth, keeping the breath fresh). The main causes of bad breath include the breakdown of food particles in your mouth, bacteria buildup, mouth dryness and tooth decay. Halitosis can be treated by our dental professionals who will work with you to help identify the underlying cause and put together a treatment plan. We use scaling and root planning to remove the tartar below the gum line and to smoothen the roots. To prevent halitosis, it is recommended that patients keep up with routine check-ups and cleanings and maintain healthy oral hygiene habits at home.

Tips to maintain fresh breath:

• Maintain good dental hygiene – brush the teeth, gums and tongue at least twice per day and floss once per day.

• Use a tongue scraper, cleaning as far back on the tongue as possible.

• Increase water consumption.

• Visit your dentist at least twice per year for a professional dental examination and cleaning.

• Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugarless candy.

• Eat foods like raw carrots and celery.

Please feel free to contact our office with any questions you may have regarding halitosis or our treatment options.