What is periodontitis and how can your dentist help you identify problems?
“Perio-” to mean “around,” and “-dontics” to mean “teeth.” Periodontics is the discipline of dentistry that studies and promotes the health of the gums and surrounding structures that support the teeth, such as the bone. Several conditions are associated with periodontics, and your dentist can help you identify and treat these issues.
Gingivitis and Periodontitis
Gingivitis is a condition of the periodontal area that occurs when tartar and plaque (bacteria), are left on the teeth and infect the surrounding gum tissue. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that can be reversed with regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings. If good oral hygiene practices are neglected (such as poor oral hygiene, not brushing your teeth, or not flossing), gingivitis will progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis is the irreversible loss of supporting gum tissue and bone, and if left too long, it will result in loss of teeth.
Risk Factors for Periodontics
Although the most common cause of periodontal diseases is poor oral hygiene, several other risk factors can lead to gingivitis and periodontitis. These include smoking, certain illnesses such as cancer, diabetes, or AIDS, prescription medications that can affect bone density or cause a dry mouth, hormonal changes in women and girls, and even a genetic predisposition to issues with periodontics. You should discuss all of these issues with your dentist and be sure to bring up any concerns that you may have.
Regular Dental Checkups
Regular dental checkups and cleanings are crucial for detecting and preventing periodontal disease. If detected early, the disease can be reversed. If detected too late, irreversible periodontal damage has already occurred and can only be maintained. Swelling and red gums are signs that you may have a mild to moderate case of periodontal disease.
Treatments and Options
Since gingivitis and periodontitis are caused by the buildup and accumulation of plaque and tartar, removal of it is the best cure. Your dentist will recommend either a “regular” or “deep’ cleaning, depending on how advanced the periodontal disease has progressed. A “regular” cleaning removes plaque and calculus above the gum line. A “deep” cleaning requires the dentist or hygienist to numb your mouth and will remove the plaque and tarter/calculus from both above and below the gum line. Issues with periodontics can cause pain, discomfort, and a poor aesthetic appearance. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss.
Schedule an appointment for a dental cleaning at Newport Beach Dental Studio