Periodontitis: Causes and Treatment
Periodontitis, also known as gum disease, is a serious dental condition that affects the tissues that surround and support the teeth. This condition can have a significant impact on oral health, so it is essential to understand its causes, symptoms and treatments.
What is periodontitis?
Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the gums and tooth-supporting tissues, which over time can cause destruction of the alveolar bone that holds the teeth in place, resulting in mobility and possible tooth loss. .
This condition usually develops from untreated gingivitis, where chronic inflammation causes progressive destruction of the supporting tissue of the teeth.
What are the symptoms of periodontitis?
Symptoms of periodontitis include:
Swollen gums.
Bleeding when brushing.
Persistent bad breath.
Gum retraction.
Tooth sensitivity.
Tooth mobility (loose teeth).
It should be noted that each of these symptoms is the direct result of inflammation and damage to the tissues that are responsible for supporting the teeth.
What are the causes of periodontitis?
The main causes of periodontitis are:
Accumulation of bacterial plaque and tartar.
Genetic factors.
Bad oral hygiene habits.
Smoking.
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How to prevent periodontitis?
Preventing periodontitis involves maintaining good oral hygiene, including: regular brushing and flossing, regular dental visits, avoiding tobacco, eating a balanced diet, and managing pre-existing medical conditions.
Treatments for Periodontitis
Treatments for periodontitis are designed to stop the progression of periodontal disease and restore the health of the gums and supporting tissue of the teeth. In this sense, some of the frequently used treatment options are:
Oral hygiene and professional cleaning
In addition to receiving detailed instructions on proper oral hygiene, the patient undergoes plaque and tartar removal treatment by the orthodontist, with the aim of stopping the progression of periodontal disease.
Scaling and root planing
It consists of cleaning the roots of the teeth to remove accumulated plaque and tartar, and smoothing the root surfaces to prevent bacterial recolonization.
Antibiotics
In some cases, antibiotics are prescribed to control the infection and promote tissue healing.
Periodontal surgery
Periodontal surgery may include periodontal pocket reduction, guided tissue regeneration, soft tissue or bone grafts; as well as the removal of infected tissue, depending on the patient's needs.
Long term maintenance
After active treatment, it is essential to maintain regular visits with the orthodontist to monitor periodontal health and prevent recurrences.
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