What is Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is a serious infection that, left untreated, can lead to tooth loss. The word periodontal literally means "around the tooth." Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth. Two types of periodontal disease are gingivitis and periodontitis.
Periodontal disease can affect one tooth or it can affect many teeth. It begins when the bacteria in plaque (the sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth) causes the gums to become inflamed.
In the mild forms of gingivitis, the gums redden, swell and bleed easily. There is usually little or no discomfort. Gingivitis is often caused by inadequate oral hygiene. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good oral home care.
If gingivitis is left untreated it can advance to periodontitis. With time, plaque can spread and grow below the gum line. Toxins produced by the bacteria in plaque irritate the gums. The toxins stimulate a chronic inflammatory response in which the body in essence turns on itself, and the tissues and bone that support the teeth are broken down and destroyed. Gums separate from the teeth, forming pockets (spaces between the teeth and gums) that become infected. As the disease progresses, the pockets deepen and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed. Often, this destructive process has very mild symptoms. Eventually, teeth can become loose and may have to be removed.
Causes of Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is mainly caused by bacterial plaque, which is a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth. There are other factors, such as the following that also affect the health of your gums.
Smoking/Tobacco Use
Tobacco users are at an increased risk for periodontal disease. Recent studies have shown that tobacco use may be one of the most significant risk factors in the development and progression of periodontal disease
Stress
Stress is linked to many serious conditions such as hypertension, cancer, and numerous other health problems. Stress is also a risk factor for periodontal disease. Research demonstrates that stress can make it more difficult for the body to fight off infection, including periodontal diseases.
Diseases
Diseases such as diabetes, can lower your body's ability to fight infection, making periodontal diseases more severe.
Medications
Medications such as steroids, some types of anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, oral contraceptives, anti-depressants, and certain heart medications can affect your oral health. Also, medications that reduce your salivary flow can result in a chronically dry mouth, which can irritate your oral soft tissues. Let your dentist know about your medications and update your medical history files at the dental office when any changes occur.
Do you think you have periodontal disease?
Here are some of the symptoms that are associated with periodontal disease.
- Gums that bleed easily
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
- Pus between the teeth when the gums are pressed
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste
- Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
- Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
- Any change in the fit of partial dentures
- Spaces that have developed between your teeth
- Sores developing in your mouth
How can I prevent periodontal disease?
Brush Your Teeth
Brushing your teeth twice a day can remove plaque from the inner, outer and chewing surfaces of each tooth. Your dentist or dental hygienist can show you a proper brushing technique. Also, using toothpaste containing fluoride will help protect your teeth against cavities.
Clean Between Your Teeth
You should use dental floss or another interdental cleaner to remove plaque from areas your toothbrush can't reach. You can also try using mouth rinse to get in between your teeth where brushing and flossing might not reach.
How can Periodontal Disease be treated?
If you are diagnosed with periodontal disease, your periodontist may recommend periodontal surgery. Periodontal surgery is necessary when your periodontist determines that your tissue around your teeth is unhealthy and cannot be repaired with non-surgical treatment. Your periodontist will decide which treatment is best for you
If you have any questions, concerns, or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us today. We look forward to providing you with the personal care you deserve.