Gum disease is a prevalent problem. The Canadian Dental Association reports that seven of every ten Canadians will develop this condition at some time during their lives. Are you one of the many individuals searching for a solution? Biological dentistry builds upon conventional views of causes, and brings additional dental treatment options for gum disease to patients in the Calgary area. Dr. Kindal Robertson and Dr. James Redd share their insight to help you make informed dental healthcare decisions.

Traditional perspective

Your mouth hosts a multitude of bacteria, both beneficial and potentially harmful strains. The commonly-accepted progression of gum disease is generally described as follows:

• Plaque, a sticky biofilm of saliva, mucous, and food particles coats your teeth and gums.
• If plaque is not removed, it hardens into tartar.
• Tartar at the gum line irritates soft tissues, causing gums to lose their tight seal against teeth, forming periodontal pockets.
• Meanwhile, bacteria feast on sugars trapped in plaque. As these microorganisms eat, they excrete acids that further irritate gum tissue.
• Bacteria infiltrate deeper into the pockets.
• Infection eventually attacks ligaments and bone that hold teeth in place.

Crooked teeth create conditions that make it difficult to keep the mouth clean. Smoking, hormonal changes, diabetes and other systemic illnesses, and medical treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation can trigger or worsen gum disease.

Conventional treatment

Addressing gum disease usually consists of scaling and root planing. This treatment removes tartar and plaque, sanitizes pockets, and smooths tooth roots to promote re-sealing of the gingival tissue to the teeth. Advanced periodontal disease may require surgical or laser removal of diseased gum tissue, extractions, or bone grafts. Once gum disease is under control, excellent home hygiene and frequent recall appointment for deep cleaning are recommended.

A whole body approach

Drs. Robertson and Redd apply a slightly different methodology to preventing, treating, and managing gum disease. The mouth is part of the entire biological system that is your body. An infection in the mouth is due to a bacterial imbalance or a failure of the immune system. These dentists approach gum disease by first determining its root cause, rather than only treating symptoms.

Western diets are loaded with artificial ingredients, GMOs, processed foods, pasteurized dairy, and a great deal of refined sugar. Raw food and fresh, pure water are usually lacking, as are vitamins B, C, and D. Biological treatment includes making nutritional improvements to “starve” sugar-hungry bacterial and yeast infections. The doctors will talk with you about adding supplements or oil-pulling to your daily routine, as well.

In many cases, if detected early through regular professional examinations, gum disease can be successfully treated and reversed without the need for periodontal surgery.

Patients in the Calgary area do not have to choose between conventional dental treatment for gum disease and biological dentistry. At Living Wellness Dental Northland, you can be sure of receiving the most appropriate care for your specific needs. Call (403) 800-0818 to become a patient.