What is periodontitis?
Periodontitis, often called periodontal disease, is a serious gum disease that damages soft tissue and, if left untreated, can destroy the bone that supports your teeth. This can lead to loose teeth or tooth loss. Signs of periodontitis often include swollen, red or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath and gum recession.
How can periodontitis be prevented?
Preventing periodontitis starts with excellent oral hygiene. This includes regular brushing of your teeth twice a day, daily flossing and regular visits to your dentist for professional cleanings. Avoiding smoking, which is one of the main risk factors for periodontal disease, is also crucial.
What treatments are available for periodontitis?
Treatment for periodontitis depends on the severity of the disease. Options include deep cleaning known as scaling and root planing, medication, and in more severe cases, periodontal surgery may be necessary. The aim is to eliminate infection and prevent further tissue and bone damage.
Can periodontitis be reversed?
In the early stages, called gingivitis, damage can often be reversed with good oral care. However, once periodontitis reaches a certain level of severity, tissue and bone damage usually cannot be completely reversed. Treatment is then aimed at preventing disease progression.
Periodontitis and general health: is there a link?
Yes, periodontitis has been linked to a number of other health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes and premature birth. This is because inflammation and bacteria present in the mouth can enter the bloodstream, affecting other parts of the body.
How is periodontitis diagnosed?
Diagnosis of periodontitis usually begins with a thorough dental examination. Your dentist or dental hygienist will measure the depth of the spaces between your gums and teeth; deeper spaces may indicate periodontitis. X-rays can also be taken to check for bone loss around your teeth, a telltale sign of advanced periodontal disease.
What are the first signs of periodontitis to look out for?
Early signs of periodontitis include gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing, red, swollen or tender gums, and constant bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's crucial to see your dentist for an examination.
Are there any specific risk factors for periodontitis?
Yes, several factors can increase the risk of developing periodontitis, including smoking, poorly controlled diabetes, a family history of periodontal disease, certain diseases such as HIV or cancer, and medications that reduce salivary flow. Good oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist can help reduce this risk.
Can periodontitis affect children?
Although less common in children than in adults, periodontitis can affect people of all ages. Children and teenagers who have poor oral hygiene, a diet high in sugar, or who are exposed to passive smoking may be at risk. It's essential to instill good oral hygiene habits from an early age.
How can I maintain good oral health after periodontitis treatment?
After periodontitis treatment, it's vital to follow a rigorous oral care plan to prevent recurrence of the disease. This includes brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, avoiding tobacco, and limiting consumption of sweets and acidic foods. Regular dental visits for professional cleanings and check-ups will also help maintain your oral health over the long term.
