Periodontitis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention for Severe Gum Infection

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and destroys the bone that supports your teeth

Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and destroys the bone that supports your teeth. It is a severe form of gum disease. If left untreated, periodontitis can lead to tooth loss or other complications.

The main cause of periodontitis is poor oral hygiene, which allows bacteria to build up and form plaque on the teeth and gums. Plaque that is not removed through regular brushing and flossing hardens into tartar, which further irritates the gums and contributes to the progression of the disease.

In addition to inadequate oral hygiene, there are several risk factors that can increase your chances of developing periodontitis. These include smoking, diabetes, hormonal changes (such as those during pregnancy or menopause), certain medications that reduce saliva flow, genetics, and certain illnesses that weaken the immune system.

One of the main symptoms of periodontitis is gum inflammation, which can cause the gums to appear swollen, red, and tender. As the disease progresses, other symptoms may include receding gums, persistent bad breath, changes in tooth alignment or spacing, loose teeth, and pus between the teeth and gums.

To diagnose periodontitis, a dental professional will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth and gums, measure the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums, and may take dental X-rays to evaluate the extent of bone loss.

Treatment for periodontitis focuses on removing the bacteria and plaque from the teeth and gums. This typically involves a professional cleaning called scaling and root planing, which removes the plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. In more severe cases, surgery may be required to clean the deeper pockets and repair the damaged tissues.

Prevention is key to avoiding periodontitis. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily, and regularly visiting your dentist for check-ups and cleanings. Additionally, it is important to quit smoking, manage any chronic medical conditions, and eat a balanced diet to support overall oral health.

In summary, periodontitis is a serious gum infection that can result in tooth loss if left untreated. It is caused by poor oral hygiene and other risk factors, and symptoms include gum inflammation, bad breath, and loose teeth. Treatment involves removing the bacteria and plaque, and prevention is key through good oral hygiene practices and regular dental care.

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