Have you ever wondered why your gum suddenly turns reddish and bleeds when brushing your teeth? It could be a sign of periodontitis, an unwelcome guest threatening oral health. So, what is periodontitis, should you be concerned, and how can you protect yourself from this "uninvited foe"? In this article, let's explore the concept of periodontitis, its causes, symptoms, and effective preventive measures with Champion Dental Clinic. 

What is periodontitis?

Periodontitis (also known as gum disease) is a condition characterized by inflammation and infection of the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone. The main cause is the accumulation of bacterial plaque around the teeth due to inadequate cleaning, leading to the formation of stubborn tartar. These bacteria attack the gums, causing inflammation and bleeding. If not treated promptly, periodontitis can destroy the bone, causing the teeth to become loose and eventually fall out.

 

Signs of identifying periodontitis

Here are some common signs of identifying periodontitis:

• Red and swollen gums that easily bleed when brushing or eating. This is the most common sign of periodontitis.
• Unpleasant breath with a foul odor. Bacteria in dental plaque are the primary cause of bad breath.
• Loose teeth and discomfort while chewing. Periodontitis can weaken the supporting structures of the teeth, causing them to become loose and eventually fall out.
• Gum recession, exposing more of the tooth's root. Gum recession is a serious sign of periodontitis and can lead to tooth loss.

In addition, periodontitis can also cause other symptoms, including:

• Gums that bleed easily when touched.
• Dark red or purplish gums.
• Gums that feel soft to the touch.
• Formation of periodontal pockets between the teeth and gums.

Main Causes of Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a common oral disease that can lead to various dangerous complications if not treated promptly. The primary cause of periodontitis is bacteria in dental plaque.

Plaque begins as a sticky film, often formed through the interaction of starch and sugar in food with bacteria present in the mouth. This is the initial step in the formation of bacteria on the teeth.

If not removed, plaque can harden below the gumline, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to grow and tartar to form. Both issues can lead to gum irritation, causing inflammation.

Gum inflammation can progress to periodontitis, creating deep pockets between the gums and teeth. These pockets may contain plaque, tartar, and bacteria. If left untreated, infection can cause loss of tissue and bone, ultimately resulting in tooth loss.

Is Periodontitis Dangerous?

Untreated periodontitis can lead to various dangerous complications, such as:

Tooth loss: This is the most severe consequence of periodontitis. When the supporting tissues are damaged, the tooth becomes loose and eventually falls out.

Systemic diseases: Periodontitis can increase the risk of systemic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, pneumonia, and even cancer.

Aesthetic and communication impact: Bad breath and discolored teeth due to gum recession can make individuals with the disease lose confidence in communication.

 

 

>> See more: What should you do if you have tooth decay? Summary of 5 effective treatment methods

Diagnosing Periodontitis

Clinical Examination

Clinical examination at the dental clinic is the crucial first step in diagnosing periodontitis. During the check-up, the dentist or oral and maxillofacial surgeon will use a periodontal probe to assess various locations in both jaws. This is the accurate way to determine the presence of gum inflammation and periodontitis.

X-Ray Imaging

After conducting a clinical examination, X-ray imaging is the next step to evaluate the extent of bone coverage around the teeth. X-ray results provide detailed information about the severity of bone loss, helping the dentist plan appropriate treatment.

Microbiological Testing

Microbiological testing is an important method to classify harmful bacteria in dental plaque. Bacteria types such as Prevotella intermedia, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, and Treponema denticola can be identified through this test. The results help determine the appropriate treatment method and avoid unnecessary therapies.

 

Effective Periodontitis Prevention Measures

Here are some preventive measures you can consider for periodontitis at home:

• Proper Oral Hygiene: This is the most crucial measure to prevent periodontitis. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day, each time for 2 minutes, using a soft toothbrush and fluoride-containing toothpaste. Additionally, use dental floss to clean between teeth and an antibacterial mouthwash.
• Regular Dental Check-ups: You should visit the dentist every 6 months for oral health check-ups, where the dentist can examine your oral health and remove plaque and tartar.
• Healthy Diet: Limit the intake of sugary, fatty, and high-sugar foods and increase the consumption of green vegetables and fruits.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of developing periodontitis.
• Control Systemic Diseases: If you have systemic diseases such as diabetes or compromised immune function, it's essential to control them to reduce the risk of periodontitis.

Conclusion

A bright smile begins with healthy teeth! Take care of your oral health, actively prevent periodontitis to protect your smile and overall health. Hopefully, this article has helped you understand more about periodontitis. Share this article to raise awareness of oral health for everyone!

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