Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a serious infection of the gums and the supporting structures of the teeth. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of periodontal disease, the dangers it poses and the various treatments that are available.
Periodontal disease is caused by a buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. If plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional.
As the bacteria in plaque and tartar multiply, they produce toxins that can irritate the gums and cause them to become red, swollen and bleed easily. This is the early stage of periodontal disease, known as gingivitis.
If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more advanced form of the disease. In periodontitis, the gums begin to pull away from the teeth, creating pockets where more bacteria can accumulate. The bacteria and toxins can also damage the bone and connective tissue that support the teeth, leading to tooth loss.
Periodontal disease is also linked to other serious health issues such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, and diabetes.
The treatment of periodontal disease will depend on the stage of the disease and how severe it is. In the early stages of gingivitis, a professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene practices may be enough to reverse the damage. In more advanced cases, more invasive procedures such as scaling and root planing, or periodontal surgery may be necessary to remove the bacteria and damaged tissue, and to prevent further damage.
Additionally, in some cases, antibiotics or antimicrobial therapy can be used to help eradicate the bacterial infection.
Prevention is the key for periodontal disease, and it starts with good oral hygiene practices such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and regular dental check-ups. It is also important to avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and to manage underlying medical conditions such as diabetes that can increase the risk of periodontal disease.
In conclusion, periodontal disease is a serious infection of the gums and the supporting structures of the teeth. It is caused by a buildup of plaque and tartar, and can lead to tooth loss and other serious health issues if left untreated. Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene practices, and management of underlying medical conditions can help prevent periodontal disease. If you suspect you may have periodontal disease, it’s important to consult with your dentist to determine the best course of treatment.
