Periodontitis is generally the result of the unaddressed build-up of plaque.
Plaque is a sticky, natural-occurring colorless film, which contains bacteria. It can build up on your gums and teeth if you do not maintain an effective oral care routine. Because it produces toxins, plaque can irritate the gums, causing them to become red and swollen, and making them bleed at the slightest aggravation. The gums start to pull away from your teeth forming large pockets that collect debris. Infection sets in, breaking down the connective tissue and bone that support the tooth. The tooth eventually becomes loose and falls out.
What are the Common Symptoms of Periodontitis?
Periodontitis usually starts out as gingivitis or inflammation of the gums. Your gums become highly sensitive. They are tender, inflamed, and easily irritated. They tend to bleed during brushing or flossing. Sometimes you notice pus in your gum tissue.
Your teeth are likewise sensitive. You may find it uncomfortable or painful to chew your food.
If you do not address the problem immediately, gingivitis will eventually lead to periodontitis, a more serious and advanced form of gum disease, which destroys the bones and tissues around the teeth.
You may notice your gums pulling away from your teeth. You may also have a problem of malocclusion. Your upper and lower teeth do not fit comfortably together when you bite or chew. Some teeth may become loose. You may find that some of your partial dentures suddenly do not fit well anymore.
You notice that you have persistent bad breath. You also experience a chronic, unexplained unpleasant taste in your mouth.
How do you Treat Periodontitis?
A. Proper Oral Hygiene is a Must.
Learn how to brush your teeth properly. Brush your teeth at least a couple of times a day, preferably once in the morning, and right before you go to bed. Take at least two minutes when you brush your teeth.
Make sure that you floss your teeth every day, particularly before going to sleep.
B. Cut Down on Snacking, Especially on Sugary Treats.
C. Visit Your Dentist Regularly.
It is wise to visit your dentist in Dupont Circle, Washington D.C. at least twice a year for a check-up, and preventive maintenance. Get a deep professional cleaning. Dentists can help give your teeth the thorough cleaning and care that they need.
Your dentist can scale your teeth to remove tartar buildup below, and above the gum line. He can also do root planing to smooth-out rough spots on your teeth, and remove parts that show signs of infection. If you are highly sensitive to pain, you can ask your dentist to remove tartar using a laser. This technique causes less bleeding and pain.
D. Use Appropriate Medical Interventions.
There are certain medications that can help you treat periodontitis.
You can disinfect your mouth by using an antibiotic mouthwash with chlorhexidine.
After root planing, your dentist can also insert antibacterial time-release chips that contain chlorhexidine.
After planing and scaling your teeth, your dentist can also insert antiseptic microspheres composed of minocycline.
Your dentist may recommend oral antibiotics to treat specific areas where the inflammation is persistent.