Periodontitis dental disease
Periodontist is the branch of dentistry that studies the structure of the supporting tissues of the teeth, as well as the diseases and conditions that affect them. The supporting tissues are commonly known as the periodontium, which includes the gingiva (gums), alveolar bone, cementum, and periodontal ligament.
Symptoms of periodontitis include swollen, red, and bleeding gums, decreased appetite, decreased appetite, and pus around the teeth. This disease is usually caused by plaque and tartar buildup that is not removed with regular dental cleaning.
Causes of Periodontitis
Plaque and Tartar Buildup: Plaque is a thin layer of bacteria that sticks to the teeth. If not cleaned regularly, plaque can harden into tartar, which is difficult to remove with just a toothbrush.
Smoking: Smoking can interfere with gum health and make the healing process more difficult.
Genetics: There are genetic factors that can make someone more susceptible to periodontitis.
Systemic Diseases: Health conditions such as diabetes can increase the risk of periodontitis.
Lack of Oral Care: Not brushing and flossing regularly can lead to plaque buildup.
Hormones: Hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or menopause, can affect gum health.
Medical Conditions and Medications: Certain medical conditions and medications can affect oral health.
Periodontitis Symptoms
- Swollen, red, bleeding gums
Bad breath
Loose teeth
Pockets forming between the gums and teeth
Pain when chewing
Receding gums
Periodontitis Treatment
Professional Cleaning: Your dentist will perform a deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and below the gum line. This is known as scaling and root planing.
Antibiotics: Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help control the bacterial infection.
Gum Surgery: In more severe cases, a surgical procedure may be needed to remove infected tissue and repair damage.
Routine Care: Regular dental checkups and cleanings to monitor and prevent recurrence.
Periodontitis Prevention
Brush Regularly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque.
Floss: Floss your teeth daily to remove food debris and plaque from between your teeth.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Get a professional dental exam and cleaning at least every six months.
Avoid Smoking: Quit smoking to improve gum health.
Eat Healthy: Eat nutritious, low-sugar foods to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Manage Medical Conditions: If you have a medical condition like diabetes, be sure to manage it well to reduce your risk of gum problems.
By practicing good oral hygiene and getting regular checkups, you can prevent periodontitis and keep your teeth and gums healthy.