Kids and Teeth from Babyhood to University

Periodontitis is the term your dentist will use when you have what's more commonly referred to as gum disease. This is a serious condition that damages your gum tissue and allows bacteria to take hold in the damaged pockets of gum tissue. Bacterial infection can lead to tooth loss and can spread into your jawbone. Periodontitis can develop when you have a build-up of plaque and tartar along your gum line, which can irritate your gums and cause inflammation. If you have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or a compromised immune system, your risk of developing periodontitis increases, as these conditions can increase the amount of bacteria in your mouth and impact your body's ability to fight off infection.

Symptoms Of Periodontitis

Periodontitis causes your gums to become inflamed and they tend to bleed when you brush your teeth. Your gums may also recede, which can lead to you having sensitive teeth when you eat hot or cold foods. Other symptoms of periodontitis include bad breath, pain when chewing, and one or more teeth feeling loose as a result of damage to the surrounding gum tissue.

Treating Periodontitis

Your dentist can diagnose periodontitis during a routine check-up. Antibiotics are often required to clear the bacterial infection, and your dentist will remove plaque and tartar that's built up along your gums. They will then recommend a treatment approach based on the severity of damage to your gums. If there are significant gaps along your gum line, your dentist may recommend pocket reduction surgery. This involves surgically closing the gaps to prevent bacteria from re-entering your gum tissue and causing further problems. If your gums have receded, your dentist may recommend soft tissue grafting. This involves using tissue from the roof of your mouth to repair the damaged gum tissue, which will protect the roots of your teeth. If the roots of your teeth are already damaged as a result of being exposed to bacteria, your dentist may recommend applying an enamel matrix derivative. This is a gel that can promote healthy bone and tissue growth and can help damaged roots to recover, which can save any affected teeth.

If you have symptoms of periodontitis, you should schedule a dental appointment right away. Periodontitis is easier to treat when caught early, and your risk of tooth loss decreases with prompt treatment. If you struggle to manage your oral hygiene, your dentist can recommend products that can help keep plaque and bacteria to a minimum, which can reduce the risk of periodontitis developing in the future.

For more information, talk with a dentist.