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Periodontal disease, often called gum disease, is a common oral health problem affecting the gums and bones that support your teeth. It ranges from mild gum inflammation (gingivitis) to more severe forms (periodontitis) that can lead to tooth loss.
What Causes It and What Are the Symptoms?
The main culprit behind periodontal disease is plaque, that sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. If you don’t brush and floss regularly, plaque can harden into tartar, which only a dentist or dental hygienist can remove. The bacteria in plaque and tartar irritate your gums, causing inflammation and bleeding, which are the early signs of gingivitis.
If gingivitis isn't treated, it can advance to periodontitis. In this stage, the gums pull away from the teeth and form pockets that become infected. Your body’s immune response to this infection can break down the bone and connective tissue that hold your teeth in place, which can eventually lead to tooth loss if not treated.
How to Prevent and Treat It
Preventing periodontal disease is mostly about maintaining good oral hygiene. This means brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily, and seeing your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. Quitting smoking and eating a balanced diet can also help keep your gums healthy.
If you already have periodontal disease, the treatment will depend on how severe it is. For gingivitis, a professional cleaning and a better oral hygiene routine can usually restore gum health. For periodontitis, more intensive treatments like scaling and root planing (a deep cleaning method to remove tartar and bacteria from below the gum line) might be needed. In severe cases, surgical procedures like flap surgery or bone and tissue grafts may be necessary.
Final Thoughts
Periodontal disease is common but preventable. Keeping up with your oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly are key to preventing and managing gum disease. Catching it early and getting the right treatment can help you avoid serious complications and keep your mouth healthy.
