Periodontal Disease - What It Is And How To Treat It

Periodontal disease or periodontitus is a disease of the connective tissue supporting the teeth which causes progressive bone loss and eventual loss of the teeth. The underlying cause of the disease is undisturbed bacteria growth, usually between the teeth or along the gum line. Severe forms of the disease will lead to loosening and loss of the teeth if untreated. While severe forms of the disease are uncommon, the milder forms occur in approximately 50% of the population over age 30

Periodontal disease is thought to occur more frequently in people who have been diagnosed with gingivitis in the past. Gingivitis is inflammation of the gum tissue. Other risk factors for periodontal disease include smoking, inherited tendencies, and poorly managed diabetes. There is increased susceptibility to periodontal disease in people who have Downs Syndrome.

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The growth and buildup of microorganisms on the teeth and gum line will result in formation of hard deposits called bacterial plaque which become dental calculus if left undisturbed.

Symptoms of periodontal disease include redness, swelling and bleeding of the gums, halitosis, pockets between the teeth where bone shrinkage has already occurred and loosening or loss of teeth in later stages of the disease.

By far the best way to treat periodontal disease is to use preventative measures. These include

- twice daily brushing

- flossing

- use of an antiseptic mouthwash

- regular check ups and cleaning by a dentist

Brushing the teeth properly at least twice daily and using proper brushing techniques so that the bristles of the brush reach below the gum line. It's important to break up the developing deposit of bacteria that hide in these areas. An interdental brush may be useful if the spaces between the teeth are large enough. Proper flossing techniques also assist in breaking up bacterial deposit. A mouthwash such as chlorhexidine gluconate or hydrogen peroxide will halt bacterial growth as well. Avoid the use of mouthwash which contains alcohol.

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