Also referred to as periodontitis, periodontal disease affects the connective tissue that supports the teeth.
A person with this disease might suffer progressive bone loss which eventually leads to loss of the teeth. It is caused by bacteria found between the teeth and the gum.
If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to the teeth becoming loose.
What Are The Risk Factors of Gum Disease?
About 50% of people above 30 years of age are likely to suffer from milder forms of periodontal diseases. If you have been diagnosed with gingivitis previously, you have a higher risk of getting periodontitis. Gingivitis is caused by bacteria and leads to inflammation of the gums. Other risk factors include smoking, genetics or poorly managed or treated diabetes. People who suffer from Down syndrome have a higher susceptibility to getting periodontal disease.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
Once there is a buildup or growth of microorganisms between the teeth and the gum line, there will be hard deposits, known as plaque. If not treated, the plaque becomes dental calculus. Some of the symptoms include swelling, redness, bleeding gums or halitosis. It might also cause bone shrinkage leading to loose teeth and tooth loss eventually.
Treatment Options for Periodontal Disease
The best treatment options for periodontal disease include a few preventive measures such as the following.
- Brushing your teeth twice every day
- Flossing every day, especially after eating
- Using antiseptic mouthwash
- Regular checkups by a dentist and teeth cleaning
When brushing your teeth, you need to follow the proper techniques and use toothbrushes with the best and soft bristles. Make sure that you brush the area between your teeth and gums regularly to remove any deposits of bacteria in these areas. Don’t use mouthwash that contains alcohol because it might destroy your teeth, rather than cleaning them.
If the dentist actually catches periodontal disease early enough he/she can do a thorough clean-up to remove the bacteria deposits in the gum line. On the other hand, if the disease has progressed too far, there are some surgery options that are applicable to restore your teeth and gums back.
If you are suffering from periodontal disease call Shine Dental Associates today. Our board certified periodontist will examine you and go over all of your best treatment options to protect your teeth and gums.
