Do you display the symptoms of periodontitis (gum disease)?

Inflamed, red, bleeding gums, high teeth sensitivity and foul breath are part of the periodontitis symptoms. This is a serious infection, which if left untreated, may result in loss of teeth, heat stroke, diabetes, respiratory diseases or premature birth.

What causes periodontitis?

The main cause of the condition is bacterial plaque that builds on teeth. Other proven risk factors include:

• Genetic predisposition – research suggests that 30% of people have genetic predisposition to gum disease
• Pregnancy and puberty

In certain intervals of human life the system undergoes substantial hormonal changes that impact on gum health. During such periods gums are more vulnerable to infection. Pregnant women should check their gum health, because untreated periodontitis may lead to premature birth or birth of an underweight baby.

• Diabetes
• Other chronic diseases
• Some kinds of medicines
• Smoking
• Teeth grinding
• Stress
• Imbalanced diets

A balanced diet is essential for the good condition of the immune system, and hence, for gum health. So, no one should neglect the role of eating habits.

Periodontitis: types

• Gingivitis - the mildest form of periodontitis. Gums are inflamed, red and bleed easily. Gingivitis is treated by the dentist, but also requires good oral hygiene.
• Aggressiv periodontitis - occurs in healthy individuals. Teeth become loose, teeth bone is destroyed.
• Chronis periodontitis - a condition when gum pockets are formed and the gums recede. This is the most common form of periodontitis.
• Periodontitis - resulting from chronic conditions
• Necrotizing periodontitis - an infection that causes necrosis of tissues and teeth bone.

Treatment

If you are diagnosed with periodontitis, your dentist is likely to recommend surgical treatment. It may become necessary when non-surgical methods have been exhausted. Here some of the most common surgical interventions:

• Reduction of gum pockets
• Regenerative procedures
• Elongation of crowns
• Engrafting soft tissues

After tooth loss resulting from periodontitis, one of the recommended options is a tooth implant.