What is periodontitis?
Periodontitis is a severe gum infection that damages the soft tissue and the bone that supports the teeth. It is caused by bacteria that stay too long in the mouth, creating a sticky film form on the teeth. As a result, this can harden into tartar if not removed through proper oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing, thus causing the inflammation.
What are the symptoms of periodontitis?
The most common symptoms include:
- Red, swollen, and tender gums
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Receding gums, giving the look of longer teeth
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in the bite
- Persistent bad breath
- Bad taste in the mouth
If left untreated, the inflammation can lead to tooth loss. Furthermore, it can even impact the overall health, as the bacteria can enter the bloodstream and potentially cause infections in other body parts.
How do you treat it?
Treatment for periodontitis typically involves a combination of professional dental care and at-home oral hygiene practices. As for the professional dental care, your dentist may perform scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from the teeth and root surfaces. In addition, they may also prescribe antibiotics to help kill the bacteria that is causing the infection in the first place.
At-home oral hygiene practices are also essential in preventing and managing periodontitis. Those may include:
- Brushing at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing between your teeth daily before brushing your teeth
- Using an antibacterial mouthwash after brushing your teeth
Lastly, regular dental check-ups and cleanings can help catch periodontitis in its early stages and prevent it from progressing to more severe forms. If you are experiencing symptoms of periodontitis, Love Smile dental clinic has the proper equipment and the expertise to recommend the best treatment in your case.
