Periodontitis Perspectives: A Journey to Gum Wellness

Do your gums bleed? Are they red and swollen? What you notice could indicate an underlying inflammation, such as periodontitis. This is a common dental problem after tooth decay.

Periodontitis is effectively treated by the periodontist in Norristown, PA, which involves deep cleaning for mild cases and surgical intervention for more severe forms. Read on to learn more about periodontitis. 

What is periodontitis?

Periodontitis is a serious form of gum disease. It is considered to develop due to bacterial infection that begins as an Inflammation of the soft tissues surrounding the teeth. If left untreated, the infection can erode the underlying alveolar bone that supports your teeth, leading to mobility and tooth loss. 

Periodontitis is more likely to develop in adults over 30 years of age, often due to poor oral hygiene. However, it can affect anyone. 

What causes periodontitis?

The main culprit of periodontitis is poor oral hygiene. This increases the infiltration of disease-causing bacteria that cling to the tooth surface and form a biofilm called plaque. This hardens over time to form calculus. The bacteria and plaque co-exist to release harmful toxins that erode the soft tissues and underlying bone. 

What are the risk factors associated with periodontitis?

Several risk factors can make you more susceptible to developing periodontitis, irrespective of maintaining good oral hygiene. These include:

• Family history 
• Smoking
• Diabetes 
• Obesity
• Hormonal fluctuations in puberty, pregnancy, and menopause
• Inflammatory conditions like arthritis 

What are the symptoms of periodontitis?

Periodontitis symptoms can vary according to the severity, and may include:

• Discolored gums (red, bluish or purple)
• Swollen gums
• Gums bleed easily 
• Tender and sore gums
• Bad breath (halitosis)
• Pimple with pus discharge around your gums
• Gum recession 
• Pain while chewing 
• Mobile (lose) teeth
• Tooth loss
• New gaps or spaces between your teeth 
• Changes in the teeth occlusion 

How is periodontitis diagnosed?

A dentist can diagnose periodontitis through:

• Your symptoms and medical history
• Clinical examination of your teeth and gums
• Evaluation of the gum detachment and pocket measurement using a periodontal probe
• Recording dental x-rays 

Your dentist will refer you to a periodontist for further evaluation and treatment. 

How is periodontitis treated?

Periodontitis treatment depends on the extent and severity of your condition. Options include:

• Nonsurgical options

• • Antibiotics
  • Scaling and root planning

• Surgical options

• • Flap surgery
  • Bone grafts
  • Gum grafts
  • Guided tissue regeneration
  • Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy

Summary 

Periodontitis is a severe form of gum disease. Hallmark symptoms include red, swollen, bleeding, tender gums, loose teeth, and gum recession. Though this condition cannot be cured, you can manage it with proper dental care and maintenance. Practice good oral hygiene habits and visit your dentist at least once every 6 months for a thorough evaluation.