Book Appointment
Preserving Your Dental Health
Periodontal disease, commonly known as periodontitis, is a gum condition caused by bacteria accumulating on the tooth surface due to poor oral hygiene. Fortunately, this disease is preventable and treatable, especially when detected early. By understanding the symptoms, stages, causes, and treatments of periodontal disease, you can take proactive measures to prevent its onset and maintain oral health.
Recognizing the Stages and Progression of Periodontitis
Periodontitis has several phases, each with a different intensity. Early detection and treatment are essential if irreversible damage is to be avoided.
Inflammation Caused by Gingivitis
Gingivitis, or gum inflammation, is the first stage of Periodontitis. It initially manifests as red, swollen gums that bleed when brushing or flossing. Plaque buildup is a sticky layer of germs that develops on teeth and causes gingivitis. Proper oral hygiene and routine dental cleanings can prevent gingivitis, but if left untreated, it may develop into more serious types of periodontal disease.
- Periodontal Disease in its Early Stages
As the condition worsens, the gums separate from the teeth, creating pockets home to dangerous germs. Gum recession, slight bone loss, and bleeding when brushing or flossing are the hallmarks of this stage. By now, the infection may trigger an immunological response that exacerbates inflammation and damages the gum tissue.
- Mild Periodontal DiseaseAt this point, germs can progressively infiltrate the supporting bone structures due to the increased depth of the pockets between the gums and teeth. Increased bleeding, discomfort around the teeth, and apparent gum recession are possible side effects. The loss of bone support might cause teeth to become loose.
- Severe Periodontal DiseaseThe final stage of periodontitis is marked by severe loss of gum tissue, bone, and the connective tissues that hold the teeth in place. This can lead to intense pain while chewing, persistent bad breath, and a lingering unpleasant taste. Teeth may become extremely loose or even fall out. Additionally, you might notice your teeth shifting or flaring at this stage.
The Signs and Symptoms of Periodontitis
Depending on the disease’s stage, Periodontitis might present with different symptoms. Regular dental checkups are essential for early detection because the early symptoms may be inconspicuous. Typical signs and symptoms include:
- Gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing and sometimes even bleed spontaneously.
- Halitosis, or persistent bad breath.
- Inflamed, red, or swollen gums.
- Gums receding and teeth appearing longer
- Slipping or loose teeth
- Uncomfortable chewing
- Accumulation of tartar or plaque on teeth
- Bad taste in the mouth
If you experience any of these symptoms, make an appointment with your dentist at Plano Top Dental as soon as possible so they can examine your mouth and help you keep it healthy.
The Risk Factors of Periodontitis
Poor oral hygiene, which causes plaque and tartar to build up on teeth and gums, is the leading cause of Periodontitis. Nonetheless, several risk factors can raise the chance of contracting the illness, such as:
- Smoking: Smoking is one of the significant risk factors for Periodontitis.
- Diabetes: The relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease is closely connected and bidirectional. People with diabetes are more susceptible to periodontal disease. Conversely, periodontal disease can make it more difficult for individuals with diabetes to manage their blood sugar levels.
- Genetics: You may be at higher risk if you have a family history of periodontal disease.
General Health and Periodontal Disease:
Periodontal disease extends beyond oral health, having significant implications for overall well-being. The systemic inflammation and bacterial spread from the gums are linked to the onset or worsening of several severe health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), diabetes, and more. The connection between periodontal disease and these systemic conditions is increasingly recognized, with evidence indicating that gum disease can contribute to or exacerbate various chronic illnesses. Therefore, maintaining good oral hygiene and addressing periodontal disease early is crucial for preventing these broader health issues.
What to Expect After Periodontitis Diagnosis
After being diagnosed with periodontal disease, you can expect the following:
- Active Treatment: Immediate treatment will be necessary, typically involving deep cleaning procedures to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line. This helps reduce bacterial load and promotes healing of the pockets around the teeth. For more severe cases, periodontal surgery, such as osseous surgery, may be required. Additionally, regenerative procedures, like gum and bone grafting, might be needed to restore damaged tissues and bone.
- Lifelong Care: Once diagnosed, you become a “periodontal patient for life,” meaning you’ll need ongoing, specialized care to manage the condition. This includes more frequent dental visits for professional cleanings and monitoring and diligent at-home oral hygiene practices to prevent the disease from progressing or recurring.
Outlook and Prevention
Periodontitis can be effectively controlled, and its progression can be stopped with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. You must schedule routine follow-up visits with your specialist at Plano Top Dental to track your recovery and ensure the best results are achieved. You must also follow your periodontist’s advice and practice good oral hygiene at home for the best results.
Treating systemic conditions such as diabetes and quitting smoking are crucial for managing and preventing periodontal disease.
Take Charge of Your Dental Health Now!
Periodontal disease is a dangerous ailment that needs to be treated right away. Don’t wait if you think you may have Periodontitis or if you last had a dental exam a while ago. Book an appointment at Plano Top Dental. Early treatment helps preserve both your general health and your teeth.
Meet Our Orthodontists
Completed Treatment
Completed Treatment
Completed Treatment
Completed Treatment
Completed Treatment
Completed Treatment
Completed Treatment
Patients’ Experiences At Plano Top Dental
Periodontal Disease Treatment
Preserving Your Dental Health
Short Biography
Preserving Your Dental Health Periodontal disease, commonly known as periodontitis, is a gum condition caused by bacteria accumulating on the tooth surface due to poor oral hygiene. Fortunately, this disease is preventable and treatable, especially when detected early. By understanding the symptoms, stages, causes, and treatments of periodontal disease, you can take proactive measures to prevent its onset and maintain oral health. Recognizing the Stages and Progression of Periodontitis Periodontitis has several phases, each with a different intensity. Early detection and treatment are essential if irreversible damage is to be avoided. Inflammation Caused by Gingivitis Gingivitis, or gum inflammation, is the first stage of Periodontitis. It initially manifests as red, swollen gums that bleed when brushing or flossing. Plaque buildup is a sticky layer of germs that develops on teeth and causes gingivitis. Proper oral hygiene and routine dental cleanings can prevent gingivitis, but if left untreated, it may develop into more serious types of periodontal disease. Periodontal Disease in its Early Stages As the condition worsens, the gums separate from the teeth, creating pockets home to dangerous germs. Gum recession, slight bone loss, and bleeding when brushing or flossing are the hallmarks of this stage. By now, the infection may trigger an immunological response that exacerbates inflammation and damages the gum tissue. Mild Periodontal DiseaseAt this point, germs can progressively infiltrate the supporting bone structures due to the increased depth of the pockets between the gums and teeth. Increased bleeding, discomfort around the teeth, and apparent gum recession are possible side effects. The loss of bone support might cause teeth to become loose. Severe Periodontal DiseaseThe final stage of periodontitis is marked by severe loss of gum tissue, bone, and the connective tissues that hold the teeth in place. This can lead to intense pain while chewing, persistent bad breath, and a lingering unpleasant taste. Teeth may become extremely loose or even fall out. Additionally, you might notice your teeth shifting or flaring at this stage.
Education & Experience
Education
Board Certification
Field Of Expertise
Years Of Practice
Working Shifts
MonClosed
Tues-Fri 9:00 AM- 5:00 PM
Sat9:00 AM- 3:00 PM
Patients’ Experiences At Plano Top Dental
Home - Blogs - Periodontal Disease Treatment
Periodontal Disease Treatment
Periodontal Disease Treatment
Periodontal disease, commonly known as periodontitis, is a gum condition caused by bacteria accumulating on the tooth surface due to poor oral hygiene. Fortunately, this disease is preventable and treatable, especially when detected early. By understanding the symptoms, stages, causes, and treatments of periodontal disease, you can take proactive measures to prevent its onset and maintain oral health.
Periodontitis has several phases, each with a different intensity. Early detection and treatment are essential if irreversible damage is to be avoided.
Preserving Your Dental Health
Recognizing the Stages and Progression of Periodontitis
Inflammation Caused by Gingivitis
Gingivitis, or gum inflammation, is the first stage of Periodontitis. It initially manifests as red, swollen gums that bleed when brushing or flossing. Plaque buildup is a sticky layer of germs that develops on teeth and causes gingivitis. Proper oral hygiene and routine dental cleanings can prevent gingivitis, but if left untreated, it may develop into more serious types of periodontal disease.
Periodontal Disease in its Early Stages
As the condition worsens, the gums separate from the teeth, creating pockets home to dangerous germs. Gum recession, slight bone loss, and bleeding when brushing or flossing are the hallmarks of this stage. By now, the infection may trigger an immunological response that exacerbates inflammation and damages the gum tissue.
Mild Periodontal DiseaseAt this point, germs can progressively infiltrate the supporting bone structures due to the increased depth of the pockets between the gums and teeth. Increased bleeding, discomfort around the teeth, and apparent gum recession are possible side effects. The loss of bone support might cause teeth to become loose.
Severe Periodontal DiseaseThe final stage of periodontitis is marked by severe loss of gum tissue, bone, and the connective tissues that hold the teeth in place. This can lead to intense pain while chewing, persistent bad breath, and a lingering unpleasant taste. Teeth may become extremely loose or even fall out. Additionally, you might notice your teeth shifting or flaring at this stage.
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER
