EFFECTIVE GUM CARE IN SHERWOOD PARK
Great oral health doesn’t stop at healthy teeth. You can be cavity-free and have very straight, aesthetically-pleasing teeth yet suffer from jaw joint problems and gum disease. At Emerald Hills Dental Centre, we offer jaw and gum care in Sherwood Park to treat these problems. Jaw problems can be highly uncomfortable, and gum disease can be a serious, though common, ailment related to other, serious diseases in the body like heart disease. Gum problems can also loosen teeth and even cause teeth loss. Having healthy teeth means taking care of your gums and jaw as well, and we are happy to offer our professional advice.
TMJ (TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT) DISORDERS
Your temporomandibular joint (TMJ for short) is one of the most complex joint systems in your body and is located in your jaw. You use it every day to speak, eat, and yawn.
If you notice pain or tenderness in your jaw, face, temples, or ear region, or if you notice clicking and popping sensations when you move your jaw to chew and yawn, you may have symptoms of a temporomandibular joint disorder or TMD. TMD can also cause pain in the neck and headaches. Most TMDs go away on their own, but treatment options include using a nightguard, chiropractic services, physiotherapy, and even behavioural therapy.
GUM DISEASE
Unfortunately, gum disease is very common. It can start at any age, and symptoms are often undetectable until it gets serious and you are in danger of tooth loss.
Gingivitis
Gum disease is caused when the build-up of tartar (the hardened form of plaque that can’t be removed by brushing and flossing) causes infection of the gums at the place where teeth attach. In this early stage of gum disease called gingivitis, you may notice bleeding, redness, and slight pain, but not much more.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is the more advanced stage of gum disease where you will notice more bleeding, bad breath, and even change in where your teeth are located. Your gums will begin to recede, which may cause teeth to loosen and even fall out.
You can fight gum disease by regularly brushing and flossing your teeth and visiting your dentist for routine check-ups. For more information on oral health problems like jaw joint disorders and gum disease, contact us today at Emerald Hills Dental Centre. We have experience helping patients with jaw problems and gum disease at our Sherwood Park clinic.