What is Periodontitis?
Periodontitis is a condition in which patients will experience a severe infection of the gums. Periodontitis is a serious issue, as it can lead to damage to the gums and major deterioration of the jawbone, as well as any of the surrounding tissues.
Causes of Periodontitis
Despite its severity, Periodontitis is a gum disorders that is preventable – considering that one of the main causes is poor oral hygiene. In the most severe cases, it can lead to lost teeth and damage to the jawbone. Periodontitis has been linked as a contributory cause of major conditions such as:
- Heart Disease or Atherosclerosis – Gum disease is often known to contribute to clogged arteries,
- Stroke – Caused by clogged arteries.
- Diabetes – Gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar levels.
- Respiratory Disease – Can lead to lung infections and worsen any existing lung conditions.
Risk Factors
While the main cause of periodontal gun disease is poor oral hygiene, there are several; other factors including diseases, medications, and oral habits that can both contribute to an infection or worsen the infection when it already exists.
- Genetics – Up to 30% of individuals are more susceptible to gum disease.
- Smoking & Tobacco Use – Smoking drastically increases your risk of periodontal disease.
- Poor Oral Alignment – Creates more crevices for bacteria to be caught within and spread infection.
- Stress – Weakens the immune system and makes you less able to fight off infection.
- Hormones – Changing or fluctuating hormones make infections more likely to spread.
- Poor Diet – Can weaken the immune system.
- Medication or Diseases – Again, weakens the immune system and leaves you susceptible to infections in other areas.
The most common symptoms of Periodontitis are:
- Red, swollen, tender gums.
- Bad breath
- Toothaches
- Loose, falling teeth
- Receding gums
- Swelling
- Tooth decay
Treatment
The treatment process begins with a careful and thorough examination, so that we can get an understanding of what your gum issues might be. There are a number of conditions which can attack the gums including Periodontitis, Gingivitis and others.
Periodontal gum diseases will progress as the sulcus or the pockets between the tooth and gums, become filled with bacteria, plaque and tartar. This can cause irritation to the surrounding gum tissue and as the infection takes hold and begins to spread, it will cause damage to the gums, and eventually the bones that support the teeth – essentially the jawbone.
When it comes to gum issues, it is best to catch the condition as early as possible. When there is limited damage that has occurred, to the jawbone and other vital areas. In these cases, we will simply need to perform a few careful and thorough professional dental cleanings, helping to remove any bacteria and hopefully eliminate the infection – before it has had the chance to spread too far. This is why it is important that you make an appointment immediately when you begin to show any of the above symptoms and feel any discomfort. In cases that are more advanced, surgery may be required. For more information on periodontal gum issues or to schedule an appointment, be sure to contact us today.
