Dental Care Knowledge Base: The Facts about Periodontitis

If your gums aren’t healthy, you’re not alone. Many adults currently have some form of gum disease, which is also called periodontal disease or periodontitis. The condition ranges from mild inflammation to severe infection. Gingivitis is the name given to the mildest form of the disease. At this stage, the inflammation is often reversible. If it progresses to periodontitis, pockets of infection form between your gums and teeth. Without aggressive dental care treatment, the disease spreads into connective tissues and supporting bone structures, and you may lose your teeth.

Causes of Periodontal Disease

Bacteria-laden dental plaque builds up on the surfaces of teeth and causes infection of gum tissue. Brushing and flossing regularly helps to remove plaque. Ultimately, the most common cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene. Lack of access to dental care or an affordable dentist may also be a factor. Some diseases, such as immune disorders and diabetes, may predispose you to gum disease. It is also common in pregnancy and in people taking certain medications.

Common Symptoms of Gum Disease

If you experience any of the following symptoms of periodontal disease, see an affordable dentist for treatment as soon as possible.

• Gums that bleed easily
• Swollen or red gums
• Pain while chewing
• Persistent bad breath
• Tender gum tissues
• Loose teeth
• Sensitive teeth
• Teeth that seem to appear longer
• Receding gums

Treatment of Gum Disease

Good dental care and hygiene may be all that is needed to treat very mild forms of gum disease. A dentist called a periodontist treats advanced cases of periodontitis. The main goal of any treatment is to control infection; this can be accomplished in various ways. Your periodontist may use one or more of the following treatment methods:

• Scaling and root planing
• Medicated chip insert
• Medicated mouth rinses
• Bone or soft tissue grafts
• Flap or pocket reduction surgery

To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist in Indiana, call Wadas Dental today or make an appointment.