This article provides an in-depth look at periodontal disease. This post explains the definition, causes, symptoms and courses of treatment for dealing with gum disease.

The statistics about general oral hygiene in America are pretty grim and the consequences thereof, even more so. In a study done amongst dental patients in the United States, nearly 60% reported that they only occasionally brush their teeth while only 16% brushed at least twice a day. The cause of tooth loss can come down to a variety of factors; however, entertaining a poor oral hygiene routine will certainly get you there quicker. The leading cause of tooth loss is periodontitis, according to a Sun City dentist, which is an acute and long term infection of the gums that gradually deteriorates the health of the bone supporting the teeth.

Periodontal Disease: A Sun City Dentist Explains

Periodontitis or gum disease is a widespread infection in the gums and the supporting structures of the teeth, which leads to tooth loss. This condition can progress to the point of teeth falling out on their own, or deemed beyond repair and must be extracted. Leaving this condition untreated can actually encourage and exacerbate the development of a host of other potentially fatal ailments, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s and Rheumatoid arthritis.

What Causes Periodontal Disease?

First of all, there are diverse types of periodontitis. The most common class is chronic periodontitis, which affects most adults over the age of 35. However, periodontitis that sets in during childhood or early adulthood is known as aggressive periodontitis. Anyone can get periodontal disease. Even if you brush your teeth every day, failing to floss, rinse and go for regular check-ups can put you at risk of developing this nasty oral affliction. Over the years, disease-causing tartar can accumulate on your teeth and only professional care can prevent the situation from worsening.

What Are The Signs and Symptoms? A Sun City Dentist Explains

There are many signs that can alert you to the presence of periodontal (gum) disease; however it is always recommended that you seek the professional advice of a qualified dentist. The following are signs that may signify periodontal disease include:

• Swollen and sore gums
• Gums that bleed when brushed or tear easily when eating
• Gums that feel tender when touched
• Gums that pull away from your teeth
• Chronic bad breath
• Tooth discoloration
• Bad taste in your mouth
• Loose teeth
• Oral sores that don’t heal easily
• A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

What Can Be Done To Save My Teeth? A Sun City Dentist Explains

If diagnosed in its early stages, your dentist should be able to control the infection, but this will depend entirely on the extent of your gum disease. Your dentist will most likely take an X-ray to determine whether you present with any bone loss, you may also be referred to a periodontist, a specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease.

Any treatment will also require the patient to maintain a good oral routine at home and change negative behaviors such as smoking and excessive alcohol use in order to improve the chances of complete recovery. In the case that you need to have one or more of your teeth extracted due to the damage already done, you should consider having dental implants. Dental implants promote a healthy jaw bone function and look and feel just like natural teeth.

A Final Word

As tedious as it may feel, you will truly benefit from a healthy and well-rounded oral hygiene routine at home. Furthermore, it is highly recommended that you visit your local, friendly Sun City dentist twice a year to ensure that everything is in good and healthy working order. None of these tasks are remotely as tedious as having to deal with what could be preventable oral ailments. Do the right thing!