Preventive Dentistry

The #1 Reason for Missing Teeth
Most teeth are lost due to gum disease, not decay. Sometimes there are no signs of infected gums until the problem is at an advanced stage. Symptoms include loose or shifting teeth and bleeding gums while brushing or flossing. When periodontal (gum) disease is remedied in the earlier stages, nonsurgical methods can be effective. At a severe stage, surgery may be the only option.

Gum Disease Can Affect Serious Health ConditionsResearch has shown that gum disease can be far more harmful to your health than just losing your teeth. A link has been established between gum disease and serious health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Further, statistics indicate that 80% of the adult population has gum disease at some stage. At this percentage, many dentists consider gum disease to be an epidemic.

Dental organizations state that "studies found periodontal infection may contribute to the development of heart disease, increase the risk of premature, underweight births, and pose a serious threat to people whose health is already compromised due to diabetes and respiratory diseases." The infection in the gums can travel through the bloodstream to vital organs, impacting other health conditions.

Effective Treatment without Surgery
Don't wait to come in and be treated for your gum infection. Waiting could mean gum surgery. Before the infection reaches an advanced state, nonsurgical procedures can be very effective, together with improved oral hygiene. Both options are generally covered under dental insurance plans.

How Does Losing a Tooth Cause Other Problems?
Even one tooth can cause other teeth to shift or loosen, possibly losing those teeth as well. Less teeth means absorbing fewer nutrients from your food. Your diet may change to softer foods, adding unwanted pounds to your weight. Bone loss from one or more missing teeth causes your face to look sunken. This adds years to your appearance. Speech can be affected too, leading to self-consciousness and embarrassment.

Dental implants are the best solution for one or more missing teeth. They look and function like real teeth and will give you a beautiful smile that is just right for you.

An Alternative to Gum Surgery
As new dental procedures evolve, more options are available for treating gum disease. Gum surgery can be avoided if this condition is treated before it reaches a severe level. The use of a laser often replaces surgery. It is considered almost a miraculous advancement, as it is an easy, minimally invasive, and painless procedure that is very effective. It is safe and can actually help improve the bone that is often lost due to gum disease.

Composium Dental Centre   
Joshua Charlat, DMD   
30 St. Clair Avenue West, Suite 203   
Toronto, ON M4V 3A1   
(416) 415-2429   
Composium.com