February is Gum Disease Awareness Month and it is our goal to raise awareness in the Downtown Victoria community about gum disease. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common and often preventable condition that affects the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It typically starts with the accumulation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, on the teeth. Without preventative care, gum disease is the main cause of tooth loss in adults. Our dental practice, Elements Dental is committed to preventing, diagnosing, and treating gum disease. 

Symptoms To Watch For

• Red, tender, or swollen gums 
• Bleeding gums 
• Gums may pull away from the teeth making them appear longer 
• Toothache 
• Receding gums 
• Loose or sensitive teeth 
• Pain while chewing 
• Persistent bad breath 

The Stages of Gum Disease in Adults



Gum disease is a common oral health condition that affects the gums and bones supporting the teeth. It is caused by bacteria that accumulate in the mouth and form plaque on teeth. If not removed by regular brushing and flossing, the plaque can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by our dental professional. 

Gingivitis

The early stages of gum disease are called gingivitis. Gingivitis is a common type of gum disease that causes inflammation of the gums. It is usually caused by poor oral hygiene, which leads to the buildup of plaque and bacteria on the teeth and gums. The most common symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen, and tender gums that may bleed when brushing or flossing.

Periodontitis

If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to a more serious form of gum disease called periodontitis which can cause tooth loss and other complications. Periodontitis can also increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other systemic health conditions. 

If you notice any symptoms of gum disease, such as bleeding or swollen gums, bad breath, or loose teeth, it is important to contact us at our Victoria practice as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your oral and overall health. 

Gum Health Preventive Measures

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for overall health. Home care for teeth is an important part of this process. Here are some tips to help you take care of your teeth at home: 

1. Brush your teeth twice a day: Brushing your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste is important for removing plaque and bacteria that can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Make sure to brush for at least two minutes each time. 
2. Floss daily: Flossing helps remove food particles and plaque that your toothbrush can't reach. It is recommended to floss at least once a day. 
3. Use mouthwash: Mouthwash can help kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Choose a mouthwash that is alcohol-free and has fluoride to help strengthen your teeth. 
4. Balanced diet: Maintaining a well-balanced diet is crucial for promoting good health, including excellent oral health. 
5. Stay hydrated: Water is an essential component to maintaining good health and hydration. Drinking plenty of water helps to flush away any food debris or particles until you brush and floss your teeth. 
6. Limit sugary and acidic foods: Sugary and acidic foods can erode tooth enamel and lead to cavities. Try to limit your intake of these types of foods. 
7. Visit our dental practice regularly: Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health. Our dentists at Elements Dental can detect any problems early on and provide treatment before they become more serious. There is a possibility that you may have more frequent appointments if need be, but our dental team will keep you informed. 

What To Expect at Your Visit with Elements Dental

Our dental team at Elements Dental will monitor and chart any pockets for gingivitis or periodontal disease using a periodontal probe and dental X-rays. 

A periodontal probe is a dental tool that is used by dentists and dental hygienists to measure the depth of the pockets between the teeth and gums. It is a thin, long instrument with a marked tip that allows dental professionals to measure the depth of the gum tissue surrounding each tooth. The probe is used to determine the health of the gums and to check for the presence of periodontal disease. Using a periodontal probe helps our dental professionals identify the presence of this disease and monitor its progression. 

During a dental exam, a periodontal probe may be used in conjunction with other diagnostic tools such as X-rays to provide a comprehensive assessment of a patient's dental health. It is an essential tool for maintaining good oral health and preventing the development of serious dental problems. 

We will meticulously monitor your progress during each appointment, offering prompt treatment as required, to ensure that you're undertaking all necessary measures to optimize your periodontal health. Periodontal treatment will reduce infection and rebuild bone and tissue structure to a certain point. If you have questions or want to book an appointment with our dental team in Victoria, please feel free to reach out and we will assist you. 

Can Periodontitis Be Treated?

In essence, periodontal treatment can alleviate infection and facilitate the reconstruction of bone and tissue structures. However, it is important to note that it's not a definitive cure. Hence, it's critical to maintain regular visits for cleanings and check-ups. Our dental practice can diagnose and provide proper treatment protocols to address any early warning signs before they escalate to such a degree.

Periodontitis progressively deteriorates with age, emphasizing the need to detect and treat it as early as possible to preserve a healthy smile. Our primary objective is to prevent dental problems and ensure that you keep your teeth for life and that we have taken the necessary measures to help you understand how to maintain good oral health. 

Important Facts About Gum Disease Awareness Month 

Gum Disease Awareness Month is an annual campaign aimed at educating the public about the importance of healthy gums and the potential dangers of gum disease. Here are some important facts about gum disease awareness month: 

1. Gum disease is a common problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It is caused by a buildup of plaque and bacteria on the teeth and gums, which can lead to inflammation and infection. 
2. If left untreated, gum disease can cause a range of serious health problems, including tooth loss, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. 
3. The good news is that gum disease can be prevented and treated with proper oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and professional cleanings. 
4. During gum disease awareness month, dental professionals and organizations work together to raise awareness about the importance of healthy gums, provide education on how to prevent and treat gum disease, and encourage people to take action to protect their oral health. 
5. Some common signs of gum disease include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, bad breath, loose teeth, and changes in the way teeth fit together when biting or chewing. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see our dental practice right away to prevent further damage and protect your overall health. 

Remember, taking care of your teeth and gums is an important part of maintaining your overall health. By practicing good oral hygiene and seeing our dental practice regularly, you can prevent gum disease and keep your smile healthy and beautiful for years to come. 

Our friendly and professional dental team is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality dental care in a comfortable and relaxing environment. To schedule an appointment, please give us a call at (250) 940-8111. We offer a variety of dental services, including routine check-ups, cleanings, fillings, and more. Our goal is to help you achieve and maintain a healthy and beautiful smile. 

We look forward to hearing from you and helping you achieve optimal dental health! Do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have. Keep smiling!