Other people find themselves wondering what periodontal disease is. Actually, this is just another name for gum disease and is actually one of the most common oral problems in the country today. The disease ranges from the mildest inflammation of the gums called gingivitis to the more advanced state which already involves damage to the bones and tissues that holds the teeth which is periodontitis. The worst case of this condition is when tooth loss already occurs. This is rather unfortunate since this condition can be prevented and even stopped from occurring.
Gum disease is caused by bacterial build-up of plaque which will later harden and form tartar on your teeth. The oral cavity is favorable for the breeding and growth of bacteria which combine with mucus and other debris that will form plaque on the teeth. When plaque hardens into tartar, even if you brush and floss harder at this time, it is already difficult to remove and will become dangerous in time. The first signs of periodontal disease are still mild and considered gingivitis. When the gums start to swell and bleed easily, this will advance and progress to periodontitis. The treatment for periodontal disease includes regular brushing and flossing aside from professional dental cleaning by your dentist.
Once the gum disease is left untreated after detecting the symptoms, the mild condition of the gum disease will gradually worsen. Periodontitis occurs and inflammation around the tooth is experienced. The gums start to pull away from the teeth where pockets and formed and become easily infected. The body’s immune response is initiated and the toxins produced from bacteria will cause the ligaments, connective tissues, and bones to break down. At this point, periodontal disease treatment is essential to save your teeth. Tooth loss is inevitable so that if treatment is resorted to, the teeth will not loosen anymore and removal is not anymore needed.
Usually, periodontal disease occurs in the 30’s or 40’s and chances of getting the disease increases with those at risk. Heavy smokers, women with hormonal changes, people with diabetes, and those taking certain drugs affecting saliva flow are more likely to develop the disease. But most individuals who practice poor dental hygiene habits are the ones who will suffer from this disease. That’s why it is always vital that one should perform proper brushing techniques, flossing the teeth after brushing, and regular professional dental checkups.
If you detect symptoms of periodontal disease in your oral cavity, it is best to visit your dentist as soon as possible. Treatment for the disease will address on the control of the infection depending on the severity of the disease. Your dentist will recommend improving your dental hygiene habits which is the first step in the treatment of the disease.