Periodontitis

Gum inflammation is a simple condition that can be easily treated, but in the case of periodontitis, this condition leads to very serious complications if it isn’t managed.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a progressive condition of gingivitis, and it occurs due to a bacterial infection and causes damage in the soft tissue surrounding the teeth, and in case it isn’t managed, this could erode the bone supporting the teeth.

Periodontitis is more common in adults older than 30 years old, and it increases after the age of 70.

Causes and risk factors leading to periodontitis

Periodontitis occurs due to the buildup of plaque (a sticky bacteria layer that normally forms continuously) and tartar (hardened plaque). The plaque is normally removed with regular teeth brushing, but when the teeth aren’t properly cleaned, then the plaque will build up. With time, the buildup of plaque will make it harder and form tartar. This causes the bacteria to build up beneath the gum line, and that causes gingivitis, which could develop to become gum disease.

Some factors that increase the risk of periodontitis:

• Smoking.
• Hormonal changes.
• Not having all the essential nutrients.
• Obesity.
• Genetics.
• Health conditions that weaken the immunity, such as leukemia, AIDS, and cancer therapies.
• Certain health conditions, such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and Crohn’s disease.

Symptoms of periodontitis

• Puffy and swollen gum.
• The gum becomes dark red or purple.
• The gum bleeds easily.
• Bad breaths.
• Pus between the gum and teeth.
• The gum pulls away from the teeth.
• Pain while chewing.
• Loose teeth, and sometimes tooth loss.
• Spaces between the teeth.

Complications of periodontitis

• Tooth loss.
• Erosion of the bone that supports the teeth.
• The bacteria could leak into the bloodstream and go to other organs.
• Periodontitis increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and dementia.

Diagnosis of periodontitis

• Examining the gum and mouth.
• Asking about the symptoms.
• Dental X-ray.

Treatment of periodontitis

• Cleaning the teeth from the plaque, tartar, and bacterial residual.
• Antibiotics.
• Surgical procedures when other treatments don’t work, such as surgery to reduce the space between the gum and teeth, gum graft, dental bone graft, and platelet-rich plasma injections.

Prevention of periodontitis

• Practice good oral and dental hygiene.
• Visit the dentist regularly.
• Brush and floss your teeth.
• Avoid smoking and tobacco products.
• Manage uncontrolled diabetes.