Periodontal Disease
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a progressive infection of the gums and the bone supporting the teeth. It is caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, on the teeth. If not treated, it can lead to tooth loss and other serious health issues.
There are several different types of periodontal disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of the disease and is characterized by inflammation of the gums, often accompanied by bleeding when brushing or flossing. Periodontitis is a more advanced stage of the disease, and it occurs when the infection spreads to the bone and connective tissue supporting the teeth.
What are the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease?
The symptoms of periodontal disease can vary depending on the stage and severity of the disease, but some common signs include:
Red, swollen, or bleeding gums: Gums may be sore and bleed easily when brushing or flossing.
Receding gums: The gums may pull away from the teeth, creating a "long in the tooth" appearance.
Bad breath: Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth can be a sign of infection.
Loose teeth: As the disease progresses, the supporting bone and connective tissue can be destroyed, making teeth loose or wobbly.
Changes in bite: Teeth may feel like they don't fit together properly.
Pus between the teeth: Pus may appear in between the teeth and gums.
It's important to note that some people with periodontal disease may not experience any noticeable symptoms. Therefore, regular dental check-ups and professional cleaning are important to detect and treat the disease early.
What are the causes of periodontal disease?
The main cause of periodontal disease is the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, on the teeth. Plaque forms when bacteria in the mouth combine with sugars and starches from food. If plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar (also called calculus), which can only be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist.
Bacteria in plaque and tartar produce toxins that can irritate and inflame the gums. Over time, this can lead to the destruction of the gums, the underlying bone, and the connective tissue that holds the teeth in place.
Other factors that can increase the risk of developing periodontal disease include:
Genetics: Some people may be more susceptible to gum disease due to their inherited genetics.
Smoking or using tobacco: Smoking or using tobacco products can make it harder for the gums to heal and can increase the risk of serious gum disease.
Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes in the body can affect the health of the gums, especially in women during pregnancy, menopause, or menstruation.
Medications: Certain medications can cause dry mouth, which can increase the risk of gum disease.
Illness: Diseases such as diabetes can make it harder for the body to fight off infection and can increase the risk of gum disease.
Poor nutrition: A diet low in important vitamins and minerals can contribute to the development of gum disease.
It's important to note that periodontal disease is a progressive condition and it can progress silently without any symptoms, so regular dental check-ups and professional cleaning are important to detect and treat the disease early.
What is the treatment of periodontal disease?
The treatment for periodontal disease depends on the stage and severity of the disease. The main goal of treatment is to control the infection and stop the progression of the disease.
Some common treatments for periodontal disease include:
Scaling and root planing: This is a deep cleaning procedure that involves removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line.
Antibiotics: Topical or oral antibiotics may be prescribed to help control the infection.
Surgery: In more advanced cases of periodontitis, surgery may be required to repair or regenerate damaged bone and tissue.
Medications: Medications to reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing may be prescribed.
Regular Maintenance: After initial treatment, regular maintenance cleanings (usually every 3-4 months) are required to keep the disease under control.
It's important to note that periodontal disease is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. Treatment may involve multiple visits to the dentist or periodontist, and it's important to follow the treatment plan recommended by your dentist or periodontist to achieve the best results.
Prevention is also key, so maintaining good oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing regularly and visiting the dentist for regular check-ups, can help prevent the onset or reoccurrence of the disease.
