Dentists - How to Prevent and Treat Periodontitis

When you visit dentists for a checkup, depending your symptoms, you teeth will likely be checked for signs of periodontitis. Periodontitis is a disease that is characterized by bleeding gums that are also red and swollen. Dentists check for pus, irregular gum color, and loose teeth when checking for the disease. 

In periodontitis, the area around the tooth is impacted by the bacterium that affects the gums. The bones that hold the teeth are also affected. Bones are destroyed. The tissue around the gums weakens until they sag around the tooth, creating pockets where bacteria can reside. Eventually, the unsupported teeth fall out. A medical examination determines if you have periodontitis.

Some patients suffer from aggressive and chronic periodontitis in which a person who appears to be healthy has inflamed tissues that encourage tooth loss. This form of periodontitis usually occurs in adults more often than children. The disease usually progresses slowly until bone loss occurs. In aggressive periodontitis, the progression of the bone loss associated with the disease occurs rapidly. Sometimes periodontitis can manifest as the result of another disease like diabetes or heart disease.

Dentists can let you know if you are at risk for having periodontitis. They may perform a treatment that is called scaling. During this treatment, they use a sharp dental instrument to scrape the tartar from the teeth and under the gums. Some parts of the gums may be moved back so the professional can clean under them. The dental practitioner can also prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. According to the Mayo Clinic, rinses or gels are typically prescribed if the professional recommends a topical solution. 

If surgery is recommended, the dentist may recommend tissue grafts to correct receding gums from the disease. Bone grafting replaces bone that is loss when the disease is worn away from the disease. A guided tissue regeneration helps the bone to grow back. Dental practitioners can use a variety of different procedures to help this growth to occur. 

This condition can be prevented through regular oral hygiene. Brushing after every meal and flossing regularly can prevent periodontitis. The Mayo clinic suggests the use of an electric toothbrush for brushing and the use of a mouthwash to help prevent plaque build-up between teeth. 

Although most people know that periodontitis may result in tooth loss, it can also be associated with strokes. Bacteria from the infection affect vital organs, causing a chain of events that can eventually cause other serious health issues. 

The disorder can be controlled through regular doctor visits. Under the care of good dentists, you can have healthy pink gums. Diagnosing the symptoms of periodontitis is key to achieving a positive prognosis. If a doctor can remove the plaque early, many of the complications associated with periodontitis can be prevented. Furthermore, you must follow your doctor's advice to keep the condition from reoccurring. In addition to having medical problems and tooth loss, your teeth may shift, or the bones in your jaws may become infected as a result of periodontitis.