Periodontitis is a severe gum disease that affects millions of people worldwide. The name itself might sound intimidating, but many individuals are unaware of its existence and the damage it can cause. In this article, we will explore what periodontitis is, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
What is Periodontitis?
Periodontitis is a gum disease that affects the tissues surrounding the teeth. It is caused by bacteria that accumulate in the mouth and form a sticky, colorless film called plaque. If the plaque is not removed by proper dental care practices such as regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar. Tartar buildup can result in inflammation of the gums, leading to periodontitis.
Periodontitis causes damage to the gums, teeth, and supporting bone structures. In severe cases, it can even result in tooth loss. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about half of adults aged 30 years and older in the United States have periodontitis.
What Causes Periodontitis?
Periodontitis is mainly caused by poor dental hygiene practices. However, several other factors contribute to the development of periodontitis:
- Genetics: Some individuals may be more susceptible to periodontitis due to their genetic makeup.
- Smoking: Smokers are at a higher risk of developing periodontitis than nonsmokers due to the damage nicotine and tobacco inflict on the gum tissues.
- Hormonal changes: Women are at a higher risk of developing periodontitis during hormonal changes such as pregnancy or menopause.
- Diseases: Individuals with certain diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and HIV are more susceptible to periodontitis due to their lowered immunity.
What Are the Symptoms of Periodontitis?
The initial stages of periodontitis may be asymptomatic, making it challenging to detect. However, as the disease progresses, the following symptoms may occur:
- Swollen, red, or bleeding gums
- Breath odor
- Loose or separating teeth
- Gum recession
- Pus between gums and teeth
- A change in the bite
How is Periodontitis Treated?
The treatment of periodontitis aims to remove the bacteria causing the disease, eliminate the infected tissues, and promote gum tissue regeneration. Your dental professional may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
- Scaling and Root Planing: This is a deep cleaning procedure that involves removing tartar and infected tissues from the root of the teeth.
- Periodontal Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove infected tissues and promote gum regeneration.
- Antibiotics: Antibiotics may be used to eliminate the bacteria causing the disease.
- Oral Hygiene Care: Your dental professional may recommend changes to your oral hygiene practices to prevent the recurrence of periodontitis.
Periodontitis is a severe gum disease that can cause significant damage if left untreated. It is crucial to maintain oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing regularly, visiting your dental professional for routine check-ups, and seeking treatment if any symptoms occur. By taking good care of your dental health, you can prevent the development of periodontitis and maintain healthy teeth and gums.
