Periodontal disease
Swollen and bleeding gums are early signs of inflammation. If left untreated, the infection can spread and destroy the structures supporting your teeth in the jawbone. These bacteria are particular, and they can inhibit pain, leading patients to underestimate the seriousness of the issue. Consequently, you may neglect treatment, allowing the infection to worsen and potentially cause other complications, eventually resulting in tooth extraction.
Treatment is available
- Laser treatment: A minimally invasive option that uses targeted laser light to remove diseased tissue and bacteria, promoting healing and regeneration.
- Ozone therapy: This technique utilizes ozone gas, which has disinfectant properties, to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation in periodontal pockets, improving the healing process.
- Emdogain: A gel containing proteins that stimulate the natural growth of lost gum and bone tissue, Emdogain is applied during surgical procedures to aid in the regeneration of structures damaged by periodontal disease.
- Periodontal Surgery For more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to deeply clean pockets around the teeth, reshape bone, and gum tissue to enable proper healing and easier maintenance.
FAQ
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an inflammatory condition that affects the gums and other supporting structures of the teeth. It is caused by bacteria in plaque, which can lead to gum inflammation and, if left untreated, can result in tooth loss.
Symptoms of periodontal disease can include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, receding gums, loose teeth, and changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite.
Risk factors for periodontal disease include poor oral hygiene, smoking, diabetes, hormonal changes (such as during pregnancy), certain medications, genetic predisposition, and a diet high in sugar and carbohydrates.
Periodontal disease is typically diagnosed through
a combination of a visual examination, probing of the gums to measure pocket depths,
dental X-rays to assess bone loss, and other diagnostic tests as needed.
Treatments for periodontal disease may include professional dental cleanings (scaling and root planing), medications such as antibiotics or antimicrobial mouthwashes, surgical procedures to remove diseased tissue or reshape the gums, and ongoing maintenance care.
Yes, periodontal disease can often be prevented or managed through good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing and flossing, routine dental check-ups and cleanings, avoiding tobacco use, and maintaining a healthy diet.
If left untreated, periodontal disease can progress and lead to irreversible damage to the gums and bone supporting the teeth, resulting in tooth loss and potentially affecting overall health, as research suggests a link between periodontal disease and systemic conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.