Champion Dental Clinic
What is Periodontitis? How to Treat and Self-Treat Periodontitis
Periodontitis, also known as Gum disease, is a common oral health condition that can affect both children and adults. The disease progresses gradually over time, so early detection and treatment are crucial. Failure to do so can have significant impacts on the patient's ability to chew, appearance, and overall quality of life.
What is periodontitis?
Periodontitis, also known as gum disease or periodontal disease, is a condition in which the gum tissue surrounding the teeth becomes infected. Depending on the stage, this condition is divided into two groups:
- Gingivitis: usually occurs in young people during puberty.
- Periodontitis: if gingivitis is not completely treated, it will lead to periodontitis in adolescence and adulthood.
What causes and how to recognize gum disease?
The development of bacteria from plaque buildup is the primary cause of gum disease. Without proper oral hygiene, plaque adheres to teeth and accumulates into tartar with an increased amount of bacteria. These bacteria create toxins that cause gum inflammation, periodontitis, and destruction of the supporting gum tissue around teeth.
Moreover, those with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, smokers, those with systemic conditions such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and those with infections are also at increased risk for gum disease.
Patients may have already developed gum disease and require treatment if they exhibit the following symptoms:
- Swollen and red gums that easily bleed when brushing or flossing.
- Plaque and tartar buildup, especially at the gumline.
- Persistent bad breath.
- Pus or fluid discharge when pressure is applied to the gums.
- Loose, shifting, or misaligned teeth that cause pain and difficulty when chewing.
Why is timely treatment of periodontitis necessary?
Periodontitis is one of the oral diseases that negatively affect the health and quality of life of patients. If not treated in a timely manner, it can cause the following consequences:
- Teeth become particularly sensitive to hot/cold foods, causing pain and discomfort.
- Decreased quality of taste, leading to difficulty in eating and affecting digestion.
- Bad breath, causing patients to lose confidence in communication.
- Loosening of teeth. In cases of prolonged periodontitis, patients may face the risk of tooth loss.
Methods for treating Periodontitis at Champion Dental Clinic
Treating gum disease by highly skilled dentists will completely clean the areas around the teeth and prevent bone damage. At Champion Dental Clinic, we provide the following variety of services:
Non-surgical treatment for periodontitis
If gum disease has not progressed significantly, patients may choose less invasive methods such as:
- Scaling with tools, laser, or ultrasonic devices.
- Cleaning teeth, removing tartar and bacteria.
- Using antibiotics, including antibiotic mouthwash or gel, to eliminate bacterial infections.
Surgical treatment for periodontitis
If gum disease has progressed significantly, the dentist may recommend dental surgery, such as:
- Pocket reduction surgery: small incisions are made in the gums to lift and expose the gum tissue, making scaling more effective.
- Soft tissue graft: reinforce some of the damaged soft tissue, helping to limit continued gum recession, covering exposed teeth, and enhancing aesthetics.
- Bone graft: prevent tooth loss by keeping teeth stable in the graft area.
- Guided tissue regeneration: prevent unwanted tissue from invading the healing area, allowing bone to grow back.
- Tissue-stimulating proteins: apply a special gel containing enamel matrix proteins to stimulate the growth of healthy bone and tissue.
>> See more: What Is Sterilization In Dentistry?
How to treat and self-care for periodontitis at home?
To prevent periodontitis, you should follow these measures and habits:
- Brush your teeth regularly, preferably after every meal.
- Use a soft toothbrush and remember to replace it every three months.
- Use mouthwash and floss daily for better plaque removal.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings.
- Absolutely avoid smoking.
At Champion Dental Clinic, we have a team of skilled doctors and specialists in the field of treating gum disease. Schedule an appointment for an examination when you experience any initial signs of gum disease by contacting us at the information below:
Vietnamese & English: (028) 5411-2295
中文: (028) 5411-2297 172 Nguyen Luong Bang, Tan Phu Ward, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City.
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