Waterloo Family Dental

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Gum Treatments & Bone Surgery

Dentistry is not just about teeth! Your gums and jawbone are essential parts of your oral health, and we can treat any condition they’re in and help keep them healthy. If necessary, we can also recommend a few top notch periodontists or gum specialists in the area.

Gum disease is an infection that affects your gums and jaw bone that can lead to tooth loss, and bone and tissue damage. If you don’t brush and floss daily, gum disease can produce toxins that irritate the gum. The early stages of gum disease is called gingivitis, which is treatable through professional cleaning and better toothbrushing and flossing at home.

If left untreated, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, which can cause permanent damage to your teeth, jaw, and gums.

Two common gum conditions that we treat:

Gum recession

This leaves roots exposed, which sometimes leads to severe sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks. Gum grafting is a surgery that increases the thickness of the soft tissue, minimizing temperature sensitivity and reducing or eliminating the likelihood of future problems.

Root abrasion

In some cases of gum recession, a hollowed out defect emerges. Aggressive brushing at the gum line, or grinding and clenching your teeth, can cause root abrasion, leading to severe sensitivity to hot and cold. Brushing with anti-sensitivity toothpaste helps alleviate the sensitivity, or we can apply root sealants.

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