Periodontitis

Periodontitis is the inflammatory destruction of periodontal ligament and alveolar bone of a human. This is almost universal in its occurrence affecting 95% of the population and is ultimately related to plaque and pocket formation. It is the primary cause of tooth loss in adults.

Why and How Does Periodontitis Occurs?

Periodontitis occurs when gingivitis is untreated or treatment is delayed.

But ongoing inflammation eventually Causes pockets to develop between your gums and teeth that fill with plaque, tartar, and bacteria. In time, these pockets become deeper and more bacteria accumulate, eventually advancing under your gum tissue. These deep infections cause a loss of tissue and bone. If too much bone is destroyed, you may lose one or more teeth.

There are several factors that can increase the risk of gingivitis or, periodontal disease. For details, please read- Periodontal Disease

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Periodontitis?

Bad Breath
Swollen gums
Shiny gums
Bright red or red-purple gums
Bad taste in your mouth
Bleeding gums
Loose teeth
Gums those are normally painless but tender when touched.
Pus between teeth and gums
Developing new spaces developing between teeth

When to make an appointment with the dentist?

Visit a dentist if you have any signs and symptoms of periodontitis, especially following conditions:

Gums that are swollen, sore, dusky red and bleed easily
Bad smelling breath or a bad taste develops in the mouth.
Painful teeth and gums.
Loose teeth or gum recession

Keep in mind that, periodontal disease become worse with time. It may lead to serious complications if you don’t go to a dentist in time. So, if you have any doubt, seek a dentist immediately.

How can Periodontitis be Diagnosed?

The dentist will listen to your symptoms, examine your mouth and teeth and look for plaque and plaque and calculus buildup. He will also check for soft, swollen, red-purple bleeding gums. There may be deposits of plaque and calculus at the base of the teeth, with enlarged pockets in the gums. A metal probe may be used by him to measure the depth of the pocket between the teeth and the gums. It helps determine the severity of your periodontitis.

He may suggest you perform Dental x-rays that is useful to evaluate the teeth, the bones supporting the teeth, and other mouth structures.

What can happen if Periodontitis left untreated?

Serious complications may occur, if Periodontitis left untreated, even it can be life-threatening. Complications of Periodontitis are-

Tooth loss
Facial cellulitis- infection or abscess of the soft tissue
Osteomyelitis- infection of the jaw bones
Return of periodontitis
Tooth abscess
Tooth flaring or shifting
Trench mouth
There is a possibility of developing several medical problems such as-
Coronary Heart Disease
Stroke
Poorly controlled Diabetes Mellitus
Respiratory problems
Low birth weight babies

What is the way of Periodontitis Prevention?

Maintain good oral hygiene. See- Oral Hygiene
Periodontitis will not occur suddenly. I mentioned above that, first, you will get gingivitis and gingivitis is not treated, it may lead to periodontitis. So, you should visit a dentist regularly, detect gingivitis as early as possible and treat the gingivitis. It reduces the risk of the development of periodontitis. See - Gingivitis.