Many people may be under the false assumption that the worst consequence of poor oral health is a loss of teeth. However, the results of neglect can be much more painful and dangerous. Periodontitis is an extreme gum infection that can lead to damaged teeth, gums, and jawbone, and can put you at higher risk for stroke, heart and lung disease, miscarriage, and more. While periodontal disease is incredibly serious, it’s relatively easy to prevent through proper oral care and regular professional dental care. Here are some facts to know about periodontal disease, as well as tips on how to prevent and treat it.
A Common Problem
Periodontitis is a relatively common problem that impacts over 3 million adults in the US every year. The primary cause is poor oral hygiene that allows bacteria to fester in between the teeth and gums. An infection could occur, potentially leading to tooth loss, gum recession, and more. If caught and addressed early enough, your oral care provider can typically mitigate the potential damage. However, practicing better oral care at home can often protect you from the risk of periodontitis in the first place.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
There are different warning signs to keep an eye out for that may help you catch periodontitis in its earlier stages. The most prominent issue that most people with periodontal disease will run into is swollen and irritated gums. However, chronic bad breath, receding gums, loose teeth, and bleeding gums can all also be symptoms a person with advanced stages of periodontitis may encounter. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to schedule an examination and cleaning with our team as soon as possible.
Periodontitis Treatment Options
The optimal treatment plan for periodontitis largely depends on how early the problem is caught. In its early stages, periodontitis can often be easily treated. However, depending on the level of degradation your gums have experienced, professional treatments such as scaling and root planing might be necessary. If you think you might be suffering from periodontal disease, don’t wait another day to schedule an appointment with our dentist, as early intervention is essential to minimizing the extent of the damage.