Periodontal disease is a progressive gum disease that is a leading cause of adult tooth loss. The disease occurs when toxins in plaque inflame or irritate the gingiva or gum tissue. The bacterial infection or gingivitis can result in the destruction of the gums as well as the underlying bone. Not seeking treatment immediately can lead to periodontal disease, which causes tooth loss or loose teeth.

 

Types of Periodontal Disease

There are different types of periodontal disease, and they include chronic, aggressive, and necrotizing periodontitis. There is also periodontitis that is associated with systemic diseases. The different types of diseases have distinct symptoms and characteristics. However, they all require prompt attention and treatment. Vising a dentist will help to stop bone and tissue loss.

 

Symptoms of the Disease

It is very important to understand that in many cases, periodontal disease can progress without symptoms like pain. This is why you should get a regular dental checkup. There are, however, symptoms that you should look out for:
 

·      Swelling, Redness, and Pain

If you notice swelling of the gums, redness, or pain, they may be symptoms of periodontal infection. The infection needs to be controlled before it affects the gum tissue and the jawbone. Prompt treatment will also keep the infection from getting into the bloodstream and other parts of the body.

• Unexplained Bleeding

Bleeding while brushing or flossing is a common sign of periodontal infection. Bleeding can also occur when eating. Toxins that are present in plaque lead to a bacterial infection that causes the tissues to bleed. The presence of pus is also a clear sign of infection.

• Bad Breath or Halitosis

Bad breath often starts from the stomach or lungs and at the back of the tongue. However, bad breath can also be caused by food particles stuck between an individual’s teeth and under the gumline. Deep gum pockets appear, and they hold more bacteria and debris, resulting in a foul odor.

• Gum Recession

Having longer-looking teeth can be a symptom of periodontal disease. The condition occurs when the gums recede due to bacteria that destroy the supporting bones and tissue. The result is teeth looking longer, and the person appears to have a “toothier” smile.

• Loose or Shifting Teeth

A change in the bite pattern can be a clear symptom of periodontal disease. As the disease progresses, the teeth in the affected area tend to loosen or shift. As the bone tissue is damaged, the teeth that were previously firmly attached become loose on the jawbone.

 

Treating Periodontal Disease

It is very important to get prompt treatment to halt the progression of periodontal disease. The dentist will assess to come up with the best treatment plan. The severity or progression of the condition will determine the right option. A screening process known as Periodontal Probing is used to determine when the patient requires Deep Cleaning. A Periodontal Probe shows whether the bone is healthy below the gumline.
 

If you notice any of the signs or symptoms of the disease, schedule a visit to the dentist to get immediate treatment.

 

For more details on periodontal disease, call SmileOn Dentistry Dr. Ramona Sabbaghian & Dr. Anahita Sabaghian in Marina Del Rey at 310-881-8780.