Periodontal disease, its causes
and possible treatments
Often silent for the first few months, periodontal disease affects the structure surrounding the tooth: gums, cementum, ligament and bone. Left untreated, this condition can have a serious impact on your oral and general health. Studio Paro explains what periodontal disease is, its causes, warning signs and possible treatments.
What causes gum and periodontal disease?
Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums caused by bacteria present in dental plaque. Gingivitis is a treatable disease which, if caught early, has no serious consequences.
Periodontitis, often the result of untreated gingivitis, is a more severe form of gum disease. It is caused by bacteria that proliferate between the gums and the root of the tooth, in spaces called periodontal pockets. Theorigin of periodontal disease involves a number of factors: a defective immune system, a favourable genetic background, drug treatments… /p >
Left untreated, periodontitis continues to progress. Eventually, the main risk is the loss of one or more teeth.
What factors influence the development of periodontitis?
Various factors play a role in the onset and progression of periodontal disease, including :
- patient age and genetic factors;
- Smoking;
- stress;
- obesity;
- systemic or autoimmune diseases such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, etc.
- taking certain medications.
What are the symptoms of periodontal or gum disease?
Whether it’s gingivitis or periodontitis, certain signs should prompt you to consult a dentist as soon as possible:
- Red or swollen gums, bleeding when brushing your teeth, or even spontaneous bleeding, are all signs of gingival inflammation.
- Symptoms of periodontitis include gum recession (a feeling of “lengthening teeth”), persistent bad breath and tooth movement.
How is periodontitis treated?
The consequences of periodontal disease are irreversible, but it is possible to halt its progress. To do this, you need to combine treatment in the dental surgery with appropriate measures at home.
Preventing periodontitis means adopting the right habits, such as a balanced diet and regular visits to your dentist. Your dentist can also advise you on your oral care routine: gentle brushing with a soft brush, fluoride-enriched toothpaste, use of an interdental brush to prevent plaque build-up, mouthwash… /p >
After a thorough assessment, in-office treatment of periodontitis consists of several lithotripsy sessions. This painless, minimally invasive technique destroys subgingival tartar and eliminates the bacteria responsible for inflammation. This halts the progression of the disease and prevents tooth loosening. Follow-up appointments help prevent recurrence.
To preserve your periodontal health, Studio Paro invites you to consult its specialist dentists. In a friendly atmosphere, the practice team welcomes you, explains the diagnosis and the recommended treatment to restore optimal oral health.
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