Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a chronic bacterial infection of the gums and bone that support the teeth. It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults.

Causes and Risk Factors

• The primary cause of periodontal disease is the accumulation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, on the teeth.
• Poor oral hygiene, such as infrequent brushing and flossing, can lead to the buildup of plaque and increase the risk of developing periodontal disease.
• Other risk factors include smoking, diabetes, hormonal changes, and genetic predisposition.
• Certain medications, such as those that cause dry mouth, can also increase the risk of developing periodontal disease.

Types of Periodontal Disease

• Gingivitis: This is the earliest stage of periodontal disease, characterized by inflammation of the gums (gingiva) and bleeding on probing.
• Periodontitis: This is a more advanced stage of periodontal disease, characterized by loss of attachment between the teeth and the surrounding bone and gums.
• Aggressive periodontitis: This is a rapidly progressing form of periodontitis that can lead to significant tooth loss in a short amount of time.
• Chronic periodontitis: This is a slow-progressing form of periodontitis that can lead to tooth loss over many years.

Symptoms

• Bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing
• Red, swollen, and tender gums
• Bad breath (halitosis)
• Loose teeth
• Pus between the teeth and gums
• Receding gums, exposing more of the tooth root
• Changes in the fit of partial dentures

Diagnosis

Periodontal disease is typically diagnosed through a combination of:

• Visual examination of the teeth and gums
• Probing to measure the depth of the pockets between the teeth and gums
• X-rays to evaluate the level of bone loss
• Review of medical history to identify potential risk factors

Treatment

Treatment for periodontal disease depends on the severity of the condition, but may include:

• Professional cleaning (prophylaxis) to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth
• Scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line
• Antibiotics or antimicrobial mouthwashes to control bacterial infection
• Surgery, such as pocket reduction or bone grafting, to repair damaged tissues
• Dental implants or other restorative procedures to replace lost teeth

Prevention

To prevent periodontal disease, it is essential to:

• Brush teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth
• Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash
• Visit a dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings
• Avoid smoking and tobacco products
• Maintain good overall health, including managing diabetes and other systemic conditions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is periodontal disease?
Infection of gums and bone supporting teeth.

What causes periodontal disease?
Bacteria in dental plaque.

What are symptoms of periodontal disease?
Bad breath, swollen gums, loose teeth.

How is periodontal disease diagnosed?
Dental exam, X-rays, probing.

Can periodontal disease be prevented?
Yes, with regular brushing and flossing.

Is smoking a risk factor for periodontal disease?
Yes, it increases risk.

Can periodontal disease affect overall health?
Yes, linked to heart disease, diabetes.

How is periodontal disease treated?
Scaling, root planing, surgery.

Can periodontal disease be reversed?
Early stages can be reversed with treatment.

Is periodontal disease common?
Yes, affects many adults worldwide.