Treatment of gingivitis is a major focus of St. Lawence Dentistry. Gingivitis is inflammation of the gum tissue. It arises from bacteria in the gum and can occur at any age but most frequently arises in adolescents. It requires the presence and maturation of dental plaque to exist.
Gingivitis is diagnosed by bleeding and by changes in the color, contour, and consistency of the gums. Features include red swollen gums, loss of the stippling (microscopic elevations and depressions in the gum tissue), bulbous inter-dental gum (between teeth), and increases fluid flow from the crevice underneath the gums. When a person has gingivitis tooth brushing and can cause the gums to bleed.
Gingivitis has no gender or racial predilection and can be classified according to the distribution, duration, cause, and severity. Treatment of gingivitis consists of frequent and regular removal of plaque by the dental hygienist.
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Gingivitis can be caused by mouth breathing. Chronic mouth breathing is characterized by nasal obstruction, a high vault to the roof of the mouth, dry mouth, and a sore throat upon awakening. If you have these symptoms please make the staff at St. Lawrence Dentistry aware. Improved oral hygiene reduces this type of gingivitis but does not resolve the condition. Protective dressings placed on the affected gum can promote healing. However, definitive treatment should address the re-establishment of a clear nasal airway. Dr. Hawryluk can discuss any nasal issues you may have relating to gingivitis with your medical doctor.
Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis (ANUG) is a type of gingivitis that is linked to specific types of bacterial species and stress. This condition is also known as Vincent’s infection. Also, it has been called ‘Trench Mouth’ because a lot of brave soldiers in World War I developed this condition due to the extreme stress and poor living conditions they endured. The condition is characterized by fever, enlargement of the lymph nodes, unwell feeling, extreme mouth pain, excess saliva, and an irregular body odor. Treatment includes irrigation of the gum tissues, stress reduction, and possible antibiotic therapy. Fortunately, ANUG is a condition rarely seen at our Mississauga Dental Office.
Actinomycotic Gingivitis is a rare form of gingivitis that presents with redness, burning pain, and lack of response to regular gingivitis treatments. Diagnosis of this form is done by biopsy which will show that fungal organisms are present. Anti-Fungal medications are used as a treatment.
Pregnancy Gingivitis is a hyperplastic (tissue increase) reaction to plaque that affects women especially during pregnancy. Elevated estrogen and progesterone hormone levels have been implicated as the cause. These hormones enlarge blood vessels which permits and exaggerated response to dental plaque (bacteria on teeth). Pregnancy gingivitis produces red, swollen, and tender gums. This type of gingivitis is usually transitory and responds well to regular brushing and flossing.
Diabetic Gingivitis is a common condition seen at St. Lawrence Dentistry. Diabetes is a common disease affecting 1-3% of the population. It is characterized by high sugar levels in the blood and urine, great thirst, itching, and weight loss. Dental complications include dry mouth, burning tongue, and persistent gingivitis. Successful treatment requires meticulous homecare and control of blood sugar levels with insulin. Dr. Hawryluk will work with your medical doctor to manage this should you have these issues.
Gingivitis is a common condition which St. Lawrence Dentistry can effectively treat. If you would like to learn more about gingivitis and the remedies we offer please call us.
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