Dr. Arkady Davidson - Dental Surgeon

Location 1450 Centre Street, Suite 2
Thornhill, Ontario,
L4J 3N1

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You and your family deserve quality family dental care. We are a caring, friendly team of dental professionals committed to providing a comfortable dental experience. We provide you the best dental care possible for you and your family in a compassionate, caring environment. We want to help you maintain your oral hygiene in a way that will keep your teeth and mouths healthy for a lifetime.

Periodontal (Gum) Disease

What is it?

Periodontal Disease is the most common cause of tooth loss in adults. It is an infection of the gums, ligaments and jawbone. The disease is almost completely painless and difficult to detect in its early stages. The bacteria in plaque cause periodontal Disease. Plaque collects in pockets that form as spaces develop between gums and teeth. If plaque stays on your teeth longer than two or three days, it can harden into tartar (calculus), a white substance that makes plaque more difficult to remove and acts as a reservoir for bacteria. What's more, you usually can't get rid of tartar by brushing and flossing — you'll need a professional cleaning to remove it. Your hygienist will remove tartar and surface stains, examine teeth for decay and evaluate periodontal tissue for disease.

Stages of Gum Disease:

Gingivitis

Inflammation of the gums
May appear bright red
Bleed when brushed and probed
Minor accumulation of plaque and calculus – no loss of bone support

Early Periodontitis

More inflammation of the gums
Gums begin to separate from tooth
Inflammation reaches bone – mild bone loss
Unpleasant breath or taste
More evident accumulation plaque and calculus

Moderate gingivitis

Gums recede, teeth appear longer
Root surface exposed – sensitivity – root decay
Possible furcation involvement
Bad breath – difficult to clean, moderate plaque and calculus
Bone loss 20-50%

Advanced Periodontitis

Loose or drifting teeth
More than 50% bone loss
Significant plaque and calculus
Leads to tooth loss or possibility of tooth removal

Preventing Periodontal Disease

During each routine check-up, your dentist will examine you for periodontal disease. A periodontal probe is used to determine if there is any breakdown in the gum tissue attachment or if pockets have developed between your gums and teeth. Regular bi-annual, tri-annual or quarterly hygiene visits as suggested by your hygienist will help to keep this disease under control.

Dental Emergencies

Accidents may happen at anytime and it is important to know what can be done to avoid losing a tooth. Here are some ways you can take care of the most common dental injuries.

Knocked Out Tooth

If a tooth is completely knocked out, it should be quickly rinsed off with water, but never scrubbed. The tooth should be held by the crown (top), not the root, so you do not damage the ligaments. In a cooperative adult, the tooth should be put back in the socket. Many people may be uncomfortable re-implanting the tooth on their own. If this is the case, be sure to transport the tooth to the doctor or dentist in saline, milk, or saliva.

Chipped or Broken Tooth

If a tooth is chipped or broken, the first thing to worry about is the bleeding. Apply direct, gentle pressure to the affected gum area, not the tooth itself to stop the bleeding. Rinse your mouth gently with warm water and then apply a cold compress to the area. If you find a piece of the tooth, bring it with you when you go to the dentist. Use a painkiller in small doses to relieve any pain.

Toothache

Over-the counter pain medications may be used while you arrange a dental appointment. Avoid cold or hot foods because this may worsen the pain. Relief may be obtained by biting on a cotton ball soaked in oil of cloves.

Nitrous Oxide Sedation

We use nitrous oxide, a colourless, sweet smelling, and non-irritating gas also known as “laughing gas” to relax you. It makes you feel more comfortable during your dental treatment. The more deeply you breathe, the more you'll feel the effects of nitrous.