Periodontitis is a severe condition when the gums get infected. It occurs when the bacteria get accumulated on gums and teeth, and its progression can damage bones and teeth. Periodontitis can be treated and prevented if found early, also by maintaining proper oral hygiene.
What are the common symptoms of periodontitis?
The common symptoms of periodontitis are:
- While brushing or flossing gums start bleeding.
- Persistent bad breath
- Loss of teeth and changes in the position of teeth
- Gums start receding
- Gums get red, tender, or swollen
- Plaque or tartar builds up on teeth
- Experience pain while chewing
- Bad taste in the mouth
- The body will have an inflammatory response
What happens in periodontitis?
Poor dental hygiene is the main reason that causes periodontitis. When you don’t brush or clean your mouth properly, the following happens:
- Dental plaque forms when the bacteria in the mouth starts multiplying.
- If the plaque isn’t removed by brushing, the bacteria will start depositing minerals within it over time.
- The mineral deposit formed is called tartar, which encourages more bacterial growth towards the root of the tooth.
- The bacterial growth makes the body immune to the response by inflammation in gums.
- There occurs a periodontal gap between the gum and the root due to the disruption that happens over time.
- These harmful anaerobic bacteria multiply and deposit in the pocket and release toxins that damage the teeth, gums, and bone structures.
What are the common factors that cause periodontitis?
The common factors that cause periodontitis are, as follows:
- Smoking
- Type 2 diabetes
- Being obese
- Changes in hormones in women like when menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause occurs, as that makes the gums more sensitive
- The issues that affect the immune system such as HIV or leukemia
- The medicines that reduce the flow of saliva in the mouth
- Family history
- Lack of nutrition, like a deficiency in Vitamin C
What are the practices that can prevent periodontitis?
The common hygiene practices can prevent periodontitis, such as:
- Use fluoride toothpaste and brush your teeth at least twice a day.
- It would be better if an electric toothbrush is used, as it is more effective.
- It is necessary to floss at least once a day to remove plaque.
- Get your teeth professionally cleaned at least twice a year.
- Get regularly checked by the dentist.
- Quit smoking or chewing tobacco.
Call us at (386) 445-6111 or schedule an online appointment with Dr. Jacob for a consultation at our office in Palm Coast, FL.
