Your oral health is just as important as your overall health. However, many people tend to overlook the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene. Poor oral hygiene can lead to a variety of dental problems, including periodontal disease. Periodontal disease shouldn’t be overlooked, so you need to understand what it is, how it occurs, and how to prevent it.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It is caused by bacteria that live in plaque, which is a sticky film that accumulates on your 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.
What Are the Stages of Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease has several stages. Gingivitis is the early phase of the disease and is characterized by red, swollen gums that bleed easily. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of the disease. Periodontitis causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that become infected. Over time, the infection can destroy the bone that supports the teeth, leading to tooth loss.
The following symptoms characterize periodontitis:
- Receding Gums
- Chronic Bad Breath
- Loose Teeth
- Painful Chewing
- Tooth Sensitivity
- Pus between Teeth and Gums
What Causes Periodontal Disease?
Poor oral hygiene is one of the leading causes of periodontal disease. When plaque and bacteria build up on the teeth and gums, it may result in inflammation and infection. Other risk factors for periodontal disease include smoking, genetics, hormonal changes, certain medications, and medical conditions that weaken the immune system.
How Do You Prevent Periodontal Disease?
The best way to avoid periodontal disease is by practicing good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice daily, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. Regular dental checkups and cleanings are also necessary to remove any plaque or tartar buildup that cannot be removed with brushing and flossing alone.
Other ways to prevent periodontal disease include:
- Quitting smoking or using tobacco products
- Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Managing medical conditions that can weaken the immune system
- Reducing stress, as stress can weaken the immune system and make it harder to fight off infection
Why Is Treating Periodontal Disease Important?
If left untreated, periodontal disease can cause serious problems. It can lead to tooth loss, bone loss, and even systemic health problems like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Treating periodontal disease early is vital to preventing these complications.
Treatment for periodontal disease depends on the severity of the disease. In the early stages, treatment may involve a deep cleaning called scaling and root planing, which removes plaque and tartar from the teeth and roots.
In more advanced cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove infected tissue and repair damage to the gums and bone.
Final Thoughts
Periodontal disease is a serious threat to your oral health. It is caused by poor oral hygiene and can lead to serious complications if left untreated. However, with good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, periodontal disease can be prevented and treated. By caring for your teeth and gums, you can maintain good oral health and prevent periodontal disease.
At Your Dental Health Partners, we provide a wide range of dental services, including preventive care, periodontal therapy, and surgical interventions for advanced cases of periodontal disease. Our dentists are dedicated to helping patients achieve and maintain good oral health. Book an appointment if you are concerned about the health of your gums.
