Gum disease is an infection that can harm the soft tissue and bone-supporting teeth. If periodontitis is left untreated, it can cause teeth to fall out and put you at risk for other serious health problems. If you live in West Houston learning more about this condition, what causes it, and how to manage symptoms will help ensure long-term oral health as recommended by a family dentist in Memorial City, West Houston. I will be diving deep into periodontitis here today and why you must seek professional treatment as soon as possible.
What is Periodontitis?
Periodontal disease refers to an advanced form of gum disease that occurs when gingivitis is untreated. This happens when bad bacteria build up in the gums, driving them away from your pearly whites. This forms little pockets where bacteria and plaque can breed. As they deepen, these pockets will wear away the bone or surrounding periodontal ligaments that hold teeth in place causing your gum to eventually lose its firm attachment and as a result, you may even risk losing one of our precious teeth!
Causes of Periodontitis
1. Poor Oral Hygiene
Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth when brushing and flossing is not performed properly or there are other dental hygiene deficiencies. Plaque turns into tartar in a day, if not brushed off every 24 hours it hardens and you will only be able to get rid of it by opting for dental cleaning. Gingivitis then develops into periodontitis when allowed to progress without treatment.
2. Smoking and Tobacco Use
Smoking is a major risk factor for periodontitis and smoking negatively affects treatment efficiency. The immune system is compromised by tobacco which makes it difficult for the body to battle gum infections.
3. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes, such as those that happen during pregnancy and menopause or puberty can put gums at greater risk for sensitivity.
Diagnosis of Periodontitis at West Houston
If you think that periodontitis is to blame, it would be wise for you to seek the services of a dentist in West Houston. A complete clinical assessment usually includes the following by a dental practitioner;
- Gum health and appearance: A dentist will look for signs of gum inflammation, receding gums, as well as the presence of tartar or plaque buildup.
- Probing: A periodontal probe is used to measure the pockets around each tooth during your exam. If the pockets are more than 4 millimeters, then this is indicative of periodontitis.
- Dental X-rays: The dentist may be able to detect the progression of bone loss with dental X-rays.
Therapy for Periodontitis
It is easier to prevent periodontitis than it sounds. Taking proactive measures toward oral health can help lower your risk of developing gum disease. Take the preventive measures in mind:
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Two times of daily brushing, with fluoride toothpaste and once-a-day flossing to pull out food particles between the teeth at the gum line can protect your enamel. Use an antibacterial mouthwash to eliminate infections
- Regular Dental Check-Ups: Plan to go every six months for a once-over and professional cleaning of your teeth with the dentist. Routine cleanings help to remove tartar and for the dentist to monitor how healthy your gums are.
- Do not Smoke and avoid Tobacco Products: One of the major risk factors for periodontitis is tobacco use. Quitting smoking can lead to healthier teeth and gums, and lower the risk of other dental diseases or broader health problems.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Good nutrition provides your immune system with strength to resist infection. This will ensure that you are taking in an adequate amount of vitamin C, D, and calcium needed to keep your gum healthy (also antioxidants).
Being proactive with oral hygiene, keeping up-to-date check-ups, and getting any symptoms checked out early will lower the chances of periodontitis and keep your smile healthier.