Periodontitis is a dental condition characterized by excessive proliferation of bacteria that generates inflammation in the gums and, over time, results in the destruction of the tissue that supports the tooth, which can result in soft teeth and, consequently, tooth loss.
As periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory and infectious disease, it can be noticed during brushing and feeding in which bleeding gums can be observed. In addition, when it is observed that the teeth are becoming crooked or gradually separated, it may be a sign that the tissues that support the teeth are weakened, and may be indicative of periodontitis.
In addition to happening because of the proliferation of bacteria, periodontitis also has a genetic factor. Thus, if there has been a case of periodontitis in the family, it is important to take extra care in terms of oral hygiene. This chronic inflammation may not be noticed when it arises, still in youth, but it is permanent and bone loss tries to worsen, and it can be noticed, at about 45 years old, teeth softened, crooked and separated. In some cases it is only noticed that there is an oral health problem when the teeth become soft and start to fall, with no apparent explanation.
Main symptoms
Periodontitis can be localized, affecting only one tooth or the other, or generalized, when it affects all teeth at the same time. The change in the appearance of the teeth is what attracts the most attention of the person, or of a close person, but it is the dentist who makes the diagnosis of periodontitis, taking into account the signs presented.
Symptoms that may be present include:
- Bad breath; Very red gums; Swollen gums; Bleeding gums after brushing teeth or eating; Crooked teeth; Teeth softening; Loss of teeth; Increased space between teeth; Waking up with blood on the pillow.
The diagnosis of periodontitis can be made by the dentist when looking at the region, but a panoramic X-ray exam can be useful to assess the severity of the disease. Cases in the family of a father or mother with periodontitis as well as smoking increase the chances of the disease starting. Learn more about recognizing periodontitis.
Periodontitis Treatment
Treatment to end periodontitis involves scraping the root of the tooth, in the office and under anesthesia, to remove tartar plaque and bacteria that are destroying the bone structure that supports the tooth. The use of antibiotics may be part of the treatment in some cases.
The maintenance at the dentist periodically reduces the evolution of this inflammation and helps to control the disease, reducing bone loss and preventing the loss of teeth. In addition, not smoking, brushing your teeth daily and flossing are ways to control and cure periodontitis. Know the treatment options for periodontitis.
