Periodontology is the speciality of dentistry that studies tooth-supporting structures of teeth. Periodontitis, also called gum disease, is a serious infection that damages the soft tissue and destroys the bone that supports your teeth, leading to tooth loss. However, if periodontitis is treated early, the damage can be stopped.
What causes Gum Disease?
Since teeth are the only body part that cannot heal themselves, it is important to lower risks for developing oral health problems and to promote good oral health. Preventive dentistry is the most important goal.
Plaque is the primary cause of gum disease and begins with bacterial growth build up on the teeth. However, when plaque is not removed – caused by poor oral hygiene, it can harden and cause tartar. Plaque is a community of living microbes causing gum diseases. 1 mg of oral biomass contains about 200 to 500 million microbes.
Some people may be genetically susceptible to gum diseases. Smoking is an important cause, even hormonal changes may make you more vulnerable to gum disease. Diabetes that isn’t controlled well, teeth grinding or a poor quality of dental filling can lead to gum disease as well.
What are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?
First signs are usually gums that bleed easily, followed by bright red gums, gums that feel tender when touched and a bad breath. Periodontitis is one of the leading causes of tooth loos, followed by tooth decay.
Symptoms of Periodontitis:
- Bleeding gums while you brush your teeth
- Red, swollen and sensitive gums
- Bad breath
- When gums separate from your teeth
- Pus in between teeth and gums
- Loose teeth, teeth that are separating from each other.
Periodontitis usually progresses slowly. Those affected, detect the problems much too late. In order to prevent gum disease, please visit your dentist regularly.
Treatment Options of Gum Disease
An early treatment and cleanings provided at your check-up will remove the plaque and tartar from your teeth and root surfaces. Smoothing out the root to prevent bacteria buildup, simply to promote healing in the gums, as well as gum reattachment to the teeth. In case you suffer from advanced periodontitis, treatments require dental surgery.