Early detection of gum disease can be reversed with good oral hygiene and professional cleanings. Advanced gum disease, however, can lead to serious complications such as tooth loss.
Knowing the symptoms and causes of periodontitis in Beaverton is vital to being proactive about this silent threat!
Causes
A thorough dental cleaning can only eliminate the bacterial biofilm (plaque) that covers our teeth and is one of the main causes of gum disease. The bone and tissue that support our teeth can be destroyed by bacterial toxins if left untreated. We might have loose teeth or even tooth loss. Whether or not it has advanced determines the degree of the harm, which depends on variables like:
In the early stages of periodontal infection, gingivitis, the gums become swollen and red and bleed when brushed and flossed.
The most common surgical procedure used to treat gum disease is pocket reduction surgery, where the gum tissue is folded back, and deep cleaning is done to remove bacteria that has seeped below the gum line. This is usually performed under local anesthesia. Some cases of periodontal disease require more invasive procedures, such as all on 4 Austin, to help the gum tissue heal and reattach itself to the tooth roots.
Symptoms
It is unlikely that periodontitis will develop if you maintain good oral hygiene and see your dentist regularly for cleanings. Deep pockets, tender and swollen gums, painful chewing and pus-filled gums oozing between teeth and down to the roots are all symptoms.
Austin periodontist will examine your gums, use a probe like a tiny ruler to measure the depth of the pockets around your teeth, and take new X-rays to check for bone loss. You may be given antibiotics to fight infection or a medicated mouthwash or gel to help control the growth of bacteria. A specialized dental treatment called gingival flap surgery (also known as pocket reduction surgery) involves cutting and folding back the gums to clean the infected tissue, remove tartar, and stop the spread of infection.
Diagnosis
A dental professional can diagnose periodontitis using a small ruler called a probe to measure the depth of pockets between teeth and gums. They can also take X-rays and may refer you to a specialist, called a periodontist, for further testing and treatment.
Gingivitis is reversible, especially with proper oral hygiene and regular cleanings. Your dentist or dental hygienist will remove the bacteria and their hardened form, tartar, from the teeth and root surfaces with special tools. They will also smooth the rough areas on the tooth roots to prevent future bacteria from gathering easily. They may prescribe antibiotics to control infection and help the gums heal. If inflammation persists in sites that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush and floss, your dentist may recommend gum surgery. During this procedure, the gum tissue is lifted away, and tartar is removed from underneath, along with any damaged tissue. Then, the gums are stitched back into place around your teeth.
Treatment
In a healthy smile, the teeth are securely supported by the jawbones and firmly surrounded with gum tissue. Periodontal diseases damage these tissues and bone, causing gaps around the teeth. In these pockets, harmful anaerobic bacterium collects and releases toxins that damage teeth and bones. The supporting structure will gradually degrade until the tooth falls out or has to be extracted.
Gingivitis, the first stage of periodontal disease, is the most common. With professional treatment and good dental hygiene, it’s possible to reverse the condition.
If you have periodontitis, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. Chlorhexidine is a common antibiotic that reduces inflammation and kills bacteria. Your dentist may also use a specialized gel to encourage healthy tissue and bone regrowth. This treatment is called regenerative dentistry. It’s most successful when performed early in the course of periodontitis. However, even late-stage periodontitis can be managed effectively with appropriate treatment and diligent home care.