Understanding Periodontitis and Its Symptoms

Poor oral hygiene leads to cavities and various periodontal diseases. It can also cause other severe conditions like cancer, diabetes, respiratory illnesses, and heart ailments. In this post, we will discuss periodontitis, a common and advanced gum disease. 

What is periodontitis?

Periodontitis or pyorrhea refers to a chronic form of gum inflammation or infection around the tooth that damages the supporting bones and the soft tissues. Periodontitis worsens when ignored or left untreated, causing bone erosion and loosened teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss. Millions of people aged 30 and above in the country suffer from periodontitis. Unlike gingivitis, the initial stages of gum disease, periodontitis is irreversible.

As periodontitis advances, it causes severe gum inflammation, and the bones and tissues pull away from the teeth to form pockets of air between the gum and teeth. These gaps collect debris, providing a conducive environment for bacteria to flourish and cause severe infection below the gum line. The condition gradually damages the bones and tissues that keep the teeth anchored in their place, and eventually, tooth loss occurs. 

Periodontitis symptoms

It is hard to notice the periodontitis symptoms in the initial stages, and regular dental visits are the only way to discover them. The common indicators generally include:

• Gum redness, swelling, and inflammation

• Persistent bad breath

• Bleeding gums during brushing and flossing

• Loose, sensitive teeth or tooth loss

• Experiencing pain while chewing

• Longer teeth due to receding gums

• Improper tooth alignment

• New air pockets between teeth and gums

• Teeth surrounded by pus

• The mouth tastes foul

• Plaque and tartar build-up

Causes of Periodontitis

Failure to maintain proper oral health and hygiene is usually the primary cause of periodontitis. However, some factors can increase the risk of developing periodontitis in certain people, including:

• Smoking and tobacco consumption

• Malnutrition

• Obesity

• Diseases like diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis

• Gingivitis

• Use of recreational drugs

• Genetics

• Hormonal changes in women as a result of puberty, pregnancy, and menopause

• Conditions reducing the body immunity like cancer, HIV, or leukemia

• Certain medications

Periodontitis treatment

Though periodontitis is irreversible, proper treatment can prevent its progression, reducing the risk of tooth loss. Depending on the gum disease severity, the dentist can suggest different treatments ranging from deep cleaning to surgery. Early treatment minimizes potential damages and decreases the possibility of tooth loss. The popular treatment options used by dentists include:

• Dental cleanings

• Medication to prevent the spread of bacteria

• Antibiotic gels

• Tooth scaling

• Root planing

• Bone or tissue grafting

• Flap surgery 

Preventing periodontitis

Fortunately, periodontitis is preventable. The best way to protect the teeth from the damaging effects of this advanced gum disease is to keep the gums and teeth healthy by following proper oral hygiene practices. Here are a few steps beneficial in preventing gum diseases:

• Brushing teeth twice a day with a superior quality toothpaste

• Regular flossing to eliminate plaque

• Periodic dental checkups

• Avoid smoking

Get the professional dental care you need

Periodontitis is a severe and irreversible gum condition caused by bacteria build-up above and below the gum line, leading to permanent tooth loss. Visit a dentist if you notice any signs of gum disease. Timely treatment prevents periodontitis from getting worse. Scheduling dental visits every six months is essential for good teeth and gum health.

If you need a gentle, caring dental team, please call Jennifer Fineberg’s office at (623) 362-2550. We’ll give you the very best dental care we can!