The periodontium is an important part of your oral cavity that comprises the cementum, gums, PDL (periodontal ligament), and alveolar bone. It helps anchor your tooth firmly and enables it to withstand the masticatory forces. Any damage to the periodontium can lead to progressive destruction, eventually causing tooth loss. This is known as periodontal (gum) disease.
Prompt treatment offered by the dentist in Houston to curb gum disease can help restore the integrity of the periodontium, thereby enhancing your oral health.
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is mainly the result of infection and inflammation of the gums and bones (periodontium) that surround and support the teeth. In its early stage, called gingivitis, the gums can become swollen and red, and they may bleed. In its more serious form, periodontitis, the gums can pull away from the tooth, bone can be lost, and teeth may loosen or even fall out. Periodontal disease and tooth decay are the two biggest threats to dental health.
What causes periodontal disease?
Bacteria in the oral cavity can lead to infection since their prolonged stay can form a thin, sticky film called plaque on the tooth surfaces. This eventually hardens to form tartar (calculus) that may spread below the gum line invading the bone. Calculus leads to the secretion of harmful toxins and acids. These toxins demineralize the tooth structure and erode the supporting tissues.
Risk factors
- Family history
- Poor oral hygiene
- Puberty, pregnancy, and menopause due to hormonal changes
- Smoking
- Stress
- Certain medical conditions like diabetes, and heart disease
- Medications such as immunosuppressants and those that reduce saliva production
- Certain autoimmune diseases like lupus
What are the warning signs?
- Red, swollen gums
- Tender, painful gums
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Bleeding gums
- Pain when chewing
- Poor bite due to malocclusion
- Receding gums
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Loose teeth
How is periodontal disease treated?
Your dentist will recommend any of the following treatment options depending on the severity, and stage of the disease.
Gingivitis: Usually treated with good oral hygiene and regular dental cleaning (supragingival).
Periodontitis: Treated with extensive methods and procedures.
- Subgingival scaling
- Root planing
- Medications
- Antibiotic gels and mouth rinse
- Enzyme suppressants
- Pocket irrigation
- Corrective surgery
- Pocket elimination surgery
- Tissue regeneration
- Gum grafting
- Bone grafting
- Dental implants
Periodontal disease can be effectively reversed if detected early. Thus, it is crucial to know when to seek timely dental care to prevent further deterioration of your oral health.