Periodontal diseases are mainly due to infections and inflammation of the gums and bone that surround and support the teeth. In its early stage, called gingivitis, the gums can become swollen and red, and they may bleed. In its more serious form, called periodontitis, the gums can pull away from the tooth, bone can be lost, and the teeth may loosen or even fall out.
Causes:
Bacteria in the mouth infect tissue surrounding the tooth, causing inflammation around the tooth. When bacteria stay on the teeth long enough, they form plaque, which eventually hardens to tartar, also called calculus. Tartar build-up can spread below the gum line, which makes the teeth harder to clean. Then, only a dental health professional can remove the tartar and stop the periodontal disease process.
Warning signs:
- Bad breath or bad taste that won’t go away
- Red or swollen gums, tender or bleeding gums
- Painful chewing
- Loose teeth, Sensitive teeth
- Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
- Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
- Any change in the fit of partial dentures
Risk factors
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Poor oral hygiene
- Heredity
- Crooked teeth
- Underlying immuno-deficiencies e.g., AIDS
- Fillings that have become defective
- Taking medications that cause dry mouth
- Bridges that no longer fit properly
- Female hormonal changes, such as with pregnancy or the use of oral contraceptives
Prevention and treatment
Gingivitis can be controlled and treated with good oral hygiene and regular professional cleaning. More severe forms of periodontal disease can also be treated successfully but may require more extensive treatment. Such treatment might include deep cleaning of the tooth root surfaces below the gums, medications prescribed to take by mouth or placed directly under the gums, and sometimes corrective surgery. To help prevent or control periodontal diseases, it is important to:
- Brush and floss every day to remove the bacteria that cause gum disease.
- See a dentist at least once a year for check-ups, or more frequently if you have any of the warning signs or risk factors mentioned above.
Follow your dentist’s recommended schedule for regular check-ups. In Smileway Dental Clinic USJ and Smileway Dental Clinic Setapak, we take care of your smile because we believe in “Creating Smiles That Matters” in your life. Take care everyone and do not hesitate to contact us and get an appointment for a consultation.
