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Therapy
Why a Periodontist?
Periodontal
Disease |
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| PERIODONTAL
DISEASE
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The
word periodontal means “around the tooth”.
Periodontal disease attacks the gums and the bone that
support the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of food debris,
bacteria, and saliva. If plaque is not removed, it turns
into calculus (tartar). When plaque and calculus are not
removed, they begin to destroy the gums and bone. Periodontal
disease is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding
gums.
Four out of five people have periodontal disease and don’t
know it! Most people are not aware of it because the disease
is usually painless in the early stages.
Not only is it the number one reason for tooth loss, research
suggests that there may be a link between periodontal
disease and other diseases. Researchers are determining
if inflammation and bacteria associated with periodontal
disease affects systemic conditions. Smoking also increases
the risk of periodontal disease.
Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental
visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal
disease.
Signs and symptoms of periodontal
disease:
. Bleeding gums:
Gums should never bleed, even when you brush vigorously
or use dental floss.
. Loose teeth: Also caused by bone loss
or weakened periodontal fibers (fibers that support the
tooth to the bone).
. New spacing between teeth: Caused by
bone loss.
. Persistent bad breath: Caused by bacteria
in the mouth.
. Pus around the teeth and gums: Sign
that there is an infection present.
. Receding gums: Loss of gum around a
tooth.
. Red and puffy gums: Gums should never
be red or swollen.
. Tenderness or Discomfort: Plaque, calculus,
and bacteria irritate the gums and teeth.
STAGES OF
DISEASE
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease.
Plaque and its toxin by-products irritate the gums, making
them tender, inflamed, and likely to bleed.
Periodontitis
Plaque hardens into calculus (tartar). As calculus and
plaque continue to build up, the gums begin to recede
from the teeth. Deeper pockets form between the gums and
teeth and become filled with bacteria and pus. The gums
become very irritated, inflamed, and bleed easily.Slight
to moderate bone loss may be present.
Advanced Periodontitis
The teeth lose more support as the gums, bone, and periodontal
ligament continue to be destroyed. Unless treated, the
affected teeth will become very loose and may be lost.
Generalized moderate to severe bone loss may be present. |
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