🦷 Periodontitis
Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and destroys the bone supporting your teeth if left untreated. It can lead to tooth loss and has been linked to other health issues.
🧬 Causes:
- Caused by bacterial plaque buildup due to poor oral hygiene
- Plaque hardens into tartar (calculus), irritating gums
- Risk factors:
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Genetic factors
- Certain medications
- Poor nutrition
- Stress
🩺 Symptoms:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that bleed easily, especially during brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste
- Receding gums or teeth that look longer
- Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
🔍 Diagnosis:
- Clinical examination by a dentist using a periodontal probe to measure pocket depths
- Dental X-rays to assess bone loss around teeth
💊 Treatment:
- Professional cleaning (scaling and root planing) to remove plaque and tartar
- Improved home oral hygiene practices
- Antibiotics or antiseptic mouth rinses as needed
- Surgery in advanced cases (flap surgery, bone or tissue grafts)