Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a chronic bacterial infection of the gums and bone that support the teeth. It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults.

Causes and Risk Factors

• The primary cause of periodontal disease is the accumulation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, on the teeth.
• Poor oral hygiene, such as infrequent brushing and flossing, can lead to the buildup of plaque and increase the risk of developing periodontal disease.
• Other risk factors include smoking, diabetes, hormonal changes, and genetic predisposition.
• Certain medications, such as those that cause dry mouth, can also increase the risk of developing periodontal disease.

Types of Periodontal Disease

• Gingivitis: This is the earliest stage of periodontal disease, characterized by inflammation of the gums (gingiva) and bleeding on probing.
• Periodontitis: This is a more advanced stage of periodontal disease, characterized by loss of attachment between the teeth and the surrounding bone and gums.
• Aggressive periodontitis: This is a rapidly progressing form of periodontitis that can lead to significant tooth loss in a short amount of time.
• Chronic periodontitis: This is a slow-progressing form of periodontitis that can lead to tooth loss over many years.

Symptoms

• Bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing
• Red, swollen, and tender gums
• Bad breath (halitosis)
• Loose teeth
• Pus between the teeth and gums
• Receding gums, exposing more of the tooth root
• Changes in the fit of partial dentures

Diagnosis

Periodontal disease is typically diagnosed through a combination of:

• Visual examination of the teeth and gums
• Probing to measure the depth of the pockets between the teeth and gums
• X-rays to evaluate the level of bone loss
• Review of medical history to identify potential risk factors

Treatment

Treatment for periodontal disease depends on the severity of the condition, but may include:

• Professional cleaning (prophylaxis) to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth
• Scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line
• Antibiotics or antimicrobial mouthwashes to control bacterial infection
• Surgery, such as pocket reduction or bone grafting, to repair damaged tissues
• Dental implants or other restorative procedures to replace lost teeth

Prevention

To prevent periodontal disease, it is essential to:

• Brush teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth
• Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash
• Visit a dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings
• Avoid smoking and tobacco products
• Maintain good overall health, including managing diabetes and other systemic conditions