What is periodontitis and how do you deal with it?

Periodontitis is a severe form of the periodontal disease which is caused by plaque that develops in the area below the gum line called as sulcus or periodontal pocket. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease, which if left untreated, can lead to periodontitis. Let’s take a look at various aspects of periodontitis:

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Symptoms Of Periodontitis

Loose Tooth

When the infection caused due to periodontitis spreads beneath the gums, the gum pockets become deeper and affect your tooth nerves. The infected gums loosen the grip over the tooth and create a pocket-like space between your tooth and gums. If not cleaned thoroughly, food residuals get stuck in these pockets that can lead to the growth of bacteria, causing cavities. The problem starts with a toothache and can end with tooth loss. Visit your dentist immediately if you identify a gap between your tooth and your gums.

Inflammation Of Gums

Swollen and red gums can indicate periodontitis. It is essential to restrict the progression of the infection, before the gum tissue and jaw bone gets affected. Therefore, make sure to consult a dentist and follow good oral hygiene so that the condition doesn’t worsen.

Bad Breath

Bad breath is one of the significant signs of periodontitis. Bad breath is caused by old food residuals that sit between the teeth and underneath gum pockets. The gum pockets created by bacteria can house more debris and bacteria, causing a foul odor.

Pus

Pus occuring on the gums is a significant sign that you have periodontitis. Pus forms between the tooth and gums and it turns into an ulcer. If you feel pain and observe a pus-filled ulcer, then you must contact a dentist before the problem gets severe.

Causes of Periodontitis

Plaque is the primary cause of periodontitis. Plaque is a sticky, white film that usually accumulates on your tooth surface. If not cleaned, plaque can continue to accumulate and turns harder. It makes way into the gum line, resulting in severe infections including periodontitis.

Risk Factors Of Periodontitis

• Tobacco use
• Smoking and tobacco increases the risk of periodontal disease. In case, you are already suffering from periodontal disease, smoking makes it more severe. Smokers tend to collect more tartar on their teeth and can develop deeper periodontal pockets. Quitting smoking can play a major role in bringing the disease under control.
• Systemic Diseases
• People with certain diseases such as diabetes and HIV have a higher risk of developing periodontal disease. People with diabetes are more likely to get periodontitis as their gums are more likely to be weak as compared to others. Diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and HIV infection also increase the risk of periodontitis.
• Medications
• Certain medicines for depression and high blood pressure can cause dry mouth, which means there will be low production of saliva. A dry mouth makes your mouth more likely to trap plaque, which in turn can lead to cavities, decay, and gum diseases.

How To Deal With Periodontal Disease

Make sure to take good care of your teeth by brushing and flossing regularly. In addition to this, professional cleanings every six months can keep at bay the risks of such diseases.

Avail our dental services as soon as possible if you observe these symptoms of periodontitis. Our dentists will be able to guide you on how to deal with periodontitis effectively.

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