Periodontal disease
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a serious infection of the gums that damages the soft tissue and can destroy the bone supporting your teeth if left untreated. It typically starts with gingivitis, which causes red, swollen gums that may bleed easily. If not managed, it can progress to periodontitis, leading to gum recession, tooth mobility, and even tooth loss.
Causes
- Poor oral hygiene
- Plaque and tartar buildup
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Diabetes
- Genetic predisposition
- Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, menopause)
- Certain medications
Symptoms
- Swollen, red, or bleeding gums
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Gum recession
- Painful chewing
- Loose teeth
Treatment & Prevention
- Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing twice daily, flossing, and using an antiseptic mouthwash
- Regular Dental Visits: Professional cleanings and scaling to remove plaque and tartar
- Lifestyle Changes: Quitting smoking, managing diabetes, and maintaining a healthy diet
- Advanced Treatments: Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing), medications, or surgery in severe cases
Detailed Overview of Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that affects the gums, periodontal ligaments, and jawbone. It starts with mild inflammation but can lead to severe infection, tooth loss, and systemic health complications if untreated.
Stages of Periodontal Disease
1. Gingivitis (Early Stage)
- Caused by plaque buildup along the gumline.
- Symptoms: Swollen, red, and bleeding gums.
- Reversible with good oral hygiene and professional cleaning.
2. Early Periodontitis
- Plaque hardens into tartar (calculus), causing deeper gum inflammation.
- The immune system starts attacking gum tissues and bone.
- Symptoms: Mild gum recession, bad breath, occasional pain.
3. Moderate Periodontitis
- Bone and tissue loss begin.
- Pockets form between teeth and gums, trapping bacteria.
- Symptoms: Loose teeth, persistent bad breath, pus formation, pain while chewing.
4. Advanced Periodontitis
- Severe bone loss occurs, leading to tooth shifting or loss.
- Infection can spread to the bloodstream, increasing risks of heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.
- Symptoms: Extreme gum recession, abscesses, difficulty eating, severe pain.
Causes & Risk Factors
Primary Causes:
- Plaque & Tartar Accumulation – Bacteria in plaque produce toxins that inflame the gums.
- Poor Oral Hygiene – Infrequent brushing and flossing allow bacteria to thrive.
Risk Factors:
- Smoking & Tobacco Use – Reduces oxygen in the gums, slowing healing.
- Diabetes – High blood sugar increases infection risk.
- Genetics – Some people are predisposed to gum disease.
- Stress – Weakens the immune system, making gums vulnerable.
- Poor Diet – Deficiency in Vitamin C, calcium, and antioxidants worsens gum health.
- Hormonal Changes – Pregnancy, menopause, and puberty can make gums more sensitive.
- Medications – Some drugs reduce saliva flow, promoting bacterial growth.
Treatment Options
1. Non-Surgical Treatments
- Scaling & Root Planing – Deep cleaning to remove plaque below the gumline.
- Antibiotics – Topical or oral antibiotics to fight infection.
- Laser Therapy – Kills bacteria and promotes healing.
2. Surgical Treatments
- Flap Surgery – Lifting gums to clean deeper pockets and repositioning them.
- Bone & Tissue Grafts – Used for regenerating lost bone or gum tissue.
- Gum Grafts – Covers exposed roots to reduce sensitivity.
Prevention & Home Care
- Brush & Floss Daily – Use a fluoride toothpaste and soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Use Antiseptic Mouthwash – Helps kill bacteria and reduce plaque buildup.
- Quit Smoking – Smoking worsens gum disease and delays healing.
- Eat a Balanced Diet – Include vitamins C, D, and calcium-rich foods.
- Visit the Dentist Regularly – Get professional cleanings every 6 months.
Complications if Untreated
- Tooth Loss
- Abscess Formation
- Jawbone Deterioration
- Increased Risk of Heart Disease & Stroke (Due to bacteria entering the bloodstream)
- Diabetes Complications