Periodontal Maintenance

Periodontal Treatment

Periodontal diseases (gum diseases) are the outcome of infections and soreness of the bone and gums that support the teeth. In the early condition called gingivitis, the gums may turn red, swell up and may even bleed. When the condition turns severe, it is called periodontitis. During this condition, the gums are pulled away from the teeth, the bone can be lost and the teeth may slacken or even fall off. Periodontal disease is generally seen in adults compared to adolescents and young children. Periodontal disease is one of the major threats to oral health.

Grounds for Periodontal Disease

The bacterium in the mouth infects the flesh adjoining the teeth, causing infection of the gums which leads to periodontal disease. When the bacteria stay on the teeth for a longer period, they form a coat called plaque. This plaque subsequently hardens to form tartar or calculus. Calculus build-up may extend below the gum line. This makes cleaning the teeth more difficult. At this stage, only a qualified dentist can remove the tartar and the periodontal disease can be controlled.

Prevention and treatment

Gingivitis, the early stage of Periodontitis, may be constrained and treated with proper dental hygiene and consistent professional cleaning at a dentist’s office. Severe forms of periodontal disease can also be treated effectively, but with the help of extensive treatment. Such a treatment comprises of deep cleaning of the root surfaces of the tooth below the gums, consumption of prescribed oral medications, medications placed directly under the gums, and in extreme cases, using corrective surgery.

Certain factors that increase the risk for periodontal disease are:

  • Smoking
  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Diabetes
  • Heredity
  • Stress
  • Crooked teeth
  • Bridges that no longer fit properly
  • Fillings that have become defective

Symptoms

The following are early warning signs of periodontal disease:

  • Bad breath
  • Bad taste that won’t quit
  • Red or swollen gums
  • Tender or bleeding gums
  • Painful chewing
  • Sensitive teeth
  • Loose teeth
  • Gums that have moved away from the teeth
  • Change in the fit of partial dentures