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How Periodontitis Threatens the Health of Your Teeth
Periodontitis as a Silent Enemy That Cannot Be Underestimated
Periodontitis, often also referred to as periodontal disease, is a chronic gum condition that affects not only the surface of the teeth but also penetrates deeper tissues, such as connective structures and the bone that holds the teeth in place. Although it may initially seem like a relatively harmless problem, its consequences can be devastating for oral health and the entire body.
What Exactly is Periodontitis and How Does it Develop?
Periodontitis is caused by bacteria that naturally occur in the mouth. These bacteria form plaque, a sticky film that accumulates on teeth, especially where the teeth meet the gums. If plaque is not regularly removed, it can harden and form tartar, which further complicates the removal of bacteria through regular cleaning.
Initially, inflammation of the gums may occur, a condition known as gingivitis. Gingivitis is considered the first stage of periodontitis and is characterized by gum inflammation, which can be sensitive, red, and bleed easily. If this problem is not addressed at this stage, the inflammation can spread to deeper tissues, leading to the gradual destruction of the connective fibers and bone tissue that support the teeth.
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What Are the Main Symptoms of Periodontitis?
Periodontitis often develops gradually and can progress for a long time without noticeable symptoms. This is also why it is often overlooked or underestimated. Typical symptoms of periodontitis include:
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Bleeding Gums – This symptom often appears during tooth brushing or flossing. Bleeding is one of the first warning signs that something is not right with your gums.
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Inflammation and Swelling of the Gums – The gums may be painful to touch, red, and swollen. This inflammation results from the immune system's response to the presence of bacteria.
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Receding Gums – As periodontitis progresses, the gums may start to recede, exposing more of the tooth. This can make the teeth appear longer than usual.
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Unpleasant Breath – Chronic bad breath that does not go away even after thorough teeth cleaning can be another sign of periodontitis.
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Tooth Sensitivity – Exposure of the tooth roots due to receding gums can lead to sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli.
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Loose Teeth – In advanced stages of periodontitis, the bone tissue may become weakened, leading to tooth mobility and ultimately tooth loss.
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Long-term Consequences of Untreated Periodontitis
If periodontitis is left untreated, it can have serious consequences. Besides tooth loss, which is the most common consequence, periodontitis can also affect overall health. Bacteria from the oral cavity can enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation in other parts of the body. This can increase the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks or strokes. Some studies also suggest a link between periodontitis and complications in diabetic patients, where inflammatory processes in the mouth can worsen blood sugar control.
Prevention of Periodontitis
Preventing periodontitis primarily involves regular and thorough oral hygiene. This means not only brushing teeth at least twice a day but also using dental floss, interdental brushes, or mouthwashes. It is also crucial to regularly remove tartar, which should be done by a dentist or hygienist.
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Dental visits should be regular, ideally twice a year. The dentist can detect the first signs of periodontitis early and recommend appropriate treatment. If periodontitis has already developed, deep cleaning of the teeth may be necessary, known as scaling and root planing, which involves removing tartar and plaque from the tooth surface and beneath the gums. In advanced cases, surgical intervention may be required to restore the structures supporting the teeth.
What to Expect from Periodontitis Treatment
The treatment of periodontitis depends on its stage. In the early stages, professional cleaning and improvement of home dental care may suffice. In more advanced stages, the aforementioned deep cleaning procedures are often necessary. If periodontitis progresses to the point where teeth are loose, surgical procedures may be needed, such as guided tissue regeneration, which helps restore lost bone and connective tissue.
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In some cases, antibiotic treatment may be prescribed to help control the infection. Antibiotics can be administered either in tablet form or as a local treatment directly to the affected gum areas.
Periodontitis is a serious condition that requires careful prevention and timely treatment. While proper oral hygiene is the cornerstone of prevention, regular visits to the dentist are crucial for detecting the first symptoms and preventing disease progression. Oral health has a direct impact on overall health, and thus periodontitis should not be underestimated. Timely diagnosis and proper treatment can keep your smile healthy and beautiful throughout life.
