Dr. Rina Kotecha offers non-surgical soft tissue management – Gum Treatment in Mississauga, ON.
Gum disease strikes approximately half of the population, but many dentists rely on invasive methods such as periodontal surgery to manage the condition. At Dentistry on 10 in Mississauga, ON, Dr. Rina Kotecha offers non-surgical soft tissue management options for patients with periodontal disease to comfortably and effectively restore their smiles to health. Our Soft Tissue Management program includes laser therapy and medications to treat gum disease non-surgically. The members of our professional team are trained and certified in the Soft Tissue Management program to improve the gum health of our patients.
Non-surgical periodontal therapy options
Gum disease treatment does not always need to be painful and require long recovery times. At Dentistry on 10, general dentist Dr. Kotecha assesses each patient’s oral health in a comprehensive evaluation. In many cases, if gum disease is found, one or more non-surgical soft tissue treatment options can be used. The goal of all treatments is to minimize the number of harmful bacteria and amount of plaque on the teeth and beneath the gum line, which reduces inflammation and halts the periodontal disease in its tracks.
Laser therapy is used to remove dental plaque from the teeth and beneath the gum line (called scaling) and the surfaces of the roots are then resurfaced in a process called “root planing” to enable the gums to create a more effective seal with the teeth. This prevents pockets from forming where bacteria and plaque can easily grow and multiply.
Medications can also play an important role in non-surgical treatment of gum disease. Depending on your specific needs, the following types of medications may be recommended:
- An antimicrobial medication called chlorhexidine (common brand names include Peridex, PerioGard, and others) can control the plaque formation in your mouth as well as the growth of bacteria in periodontal pockets that have formed; it is often used in small doses that are placed into periodontal pockets after scaling and root planing, and is also available in a mouth rinse format
- Antibiotics such as tetracycline, minocycline, and doxycycline can also be used to reduce the symptoms of gum disease
Daily oral hygiene at home is also an important component of any periodontal disease management plan. Dr. Kotecha will work with you to ensure you know the proper toothbrushing technique, as well as how frequently to brush and floss for optimal oral health. With good home hygiene, you can keep gum disease at bay and prevent it from returning.
Video: Understanding Gum Disease
The three stages of gum disease or gingivitis, periodontitis and advanced periodontitis. Gingivitis is caused by toxins irritating the gum line as a result of plaque buildup. Signs and symptoms of gingivitis include swelling sensitivity and bleeding of the gums during brushing and flossing. Gingivitis can be easily reversed. Through professional care and good home oral hygiene. Periodontitis is categorised by irreversible bone loss that results from untreated gingivitis. The gums may begin to form a pocket below the gum line, which traps food and plaque. Dental treatment and home care can help prevent from further damage, but at this stage the results are not reversible. Advanced periodontitis is when the fibres and bones supporting the teeth are destroyed. This may cause teeth to shift or loosen. Teeth may have to be removed depending on how advanced the disease has become and if treatments are not effective. You can begin by preventing gum disease with good oral health. Pick up a brochure or ask your dentist today.
Call us to schedule a consultation
At Dentistry on 10, your comfort and oral health are our top priority. Dr. Kotecha and our team of professional dental hygienist will make you feel relaxed and at home from the moment you step into the office, and will always take the time to talk through all of your treatment options with you so you are confident and happy with your treatment plan. To schedule an appointment at our Mississauga, ON office, call us at (905) 455-9262 today!