Many Canadians make it a point to visit their dentist once or twice a year. But that may not be enough. You should also consider scheduling a visit to a periodontist so that you have a specialist who can take a better look at your gums. The best professional periodontists in Montreal can diagnose and treat gum problems better than regular dentists.
So when should you see a periodontist?
- If you’ve never been to a periodontist and you’re at least 30 years old, you need to see one as soon as possible. That’s because 50% of all adults over 30 have some form of gum disease. You have to make sure that you’re getting the care you need to prevent the onset of this problem.
- Your gums are bleeding, swollen, or red. These are the first signs that bacteria are attacking your gums, and they often occur when you’re brushing or flossing your teeth.
- You have a bad taste in your mouth, or you have chronic bad breath. These are signs produced by toxins caused by bacterial buildup.
- Your teeth feel loose or are shifting out of alignment. That’s often due to gum problems. You may also feel a change in your bite pattern when you chew.
- You have diabetes. Diabetes tends to impair circulation, which is vital in keeping your gums healthy. Also, you probably have a high level of sugar in your saliva. Bacteria that cause gum disease thrive on sugar.
- It’s painful when you eat. The bacteria may have already caused an infection around the root of the affected tooth. So when you bite down, you put on pressure on the infection that causes pain in the gum and around the tooth,
- Your gums are receding. You may also have deep pockets between your teeth and gums.
- Your teeth have become sensitive to extreme temperatures. This happens when the gums have receded enough to expose more of the root. It becomes painful when you drink or eat something that’s very hot or very cold.
- You’re a smoker. Smokers need to visit periodontists more often because this nasty habit impairs circulation. This keeps the gums from getting the nutrients and oxygen they need to stay healthy. The gums are more susceptible to infection.
- Your family has a history of gum disease. Gum disease may run in families. If you have a close family member, such as a sibling, parent, or even a grandparent with gum disease, you need to be evaluated by a periodontist.
Professional periodontists in Montreal can also put in dental implants for missing teeth. They’re much better than conventional implants. So for routine oral care, a regular dentist will do. But, you should also check with your periodontist to makes sure your gums are cared for properly, and if you need replacements for missing teeth.
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