Periodontitis: What You Need To Know
Periodontitis is a type of gum infection that can cause serious damage to the gums. If you do not have the issue treated by a periodontist, you can lose bone tissue and even lose your teeth. This is a common issue many people face. Fortunately, it can be treated if you catch the symptoms early. The following are some things you need to know about periodontal disease.
What Causes Periodontitis?
The main cause of periodontitis is poor oral care. When plaque develops at the base of the teeth and is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, the bacteria from the plaque will begin to essentially eat away at the gum tissue. Plaque forms when the sugar in the foods you eat mingle with the normal bacteria in your mouth. Over time, the plaque can harden and become tartar that builds up under the gums. Tartar cannot be removed with normal brushing. It must be removed with a professional cleaning. The plaque and tartar eventually cause gingivitis, which is a milder type of gum disease. You can reverse gingivitis if you start caring for your teeth. If you do not treat gingivitis, it can begin to inflame the gums even more and cause periodontitis.
What Are Some Symptoms of Periodontitis?
If you think you might have periodontitis, you need to start looking carefully at your symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms include gums that bleed and feel tender, swollen gums that are dark red in color, teeth that feel loose or become spaced out, receding gums, and pain when you chew. You might also notice a change in your bite or infection in your gums.
What Can Happen If You Do Not Treat Periodontitis?
There are several problems that can result from not treating periodontitis. The most noticeable complication is the loss of your teeth. As the jawbone weakens, the teeth do not have the support they need to stay in place. If you have a severe infection in your gums, you risk the infection getting into your bloodstream and moving to other parts of the body.
How Do You Prevent Periodontitis?
The best way to avoid developing periodontitis is to take care of your teeth. You do not have to do anything special other than brushing and flossing every day. You should also see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. These steps will help keep plaque off your teeth and prevent tartar buildup.