Arizona Tribune - Understanding Periodontal Disease: Symptoms, Risks, and Treatments

What is periodontal disease?

Depending on the severity of the infection, periodontal disease can take on a few different forms. It may start with a milder form of gum disease called gingivitis.¹ This infection only affects the gums and soft tissue of your mouth, leading to redness, swelling, and bleeding. However, gingivitis is reversible with proper care.

If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontitis, resulting in pockets forming between the gums and teeth.¹ It may also result in bone loss. Treatment for periodontitis may be lengthier and more complicated, making it important to tell your dentist as soon as you notice any issues.

Common periodontal disease symptoms

Because gum disease can develop without causing pain, you may not notice it until it's progressed. Some symptoms to watch out for include:²

• Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing

• Red, swollen, or tender gums

• Gums pulling away from the teeth, also known as gum recession

• Persistent bad breath or taste

• Loose or shifting teeth

• Pus along the gums

Risks of periodontal disease

Periodontal disease is a serious health issue. If left untreated, gingivitis or periodontitis can weaken your teeth and jaw, sometimes even requiring teeth to be removed if they can't be saved. Bacteria from your mouth may even enter your bloodstream, causing issues in other parts of the body.²

There are several risk factors that can increase your risk of developing gum disease. These include:¹

• Poor oral hygiene, including infrequent brushing and flossing

• Smoking and tobacco use

• Genetic or family history of gum disease

Periodontal disease treatment

If caught early, periodontal disease treatment can be quite simple. Your dentist may perform a deep cleaning, removing plaque, tartar, and bacterial buildup that has accumulated below the gumline.¹ They might also prescribe antibiotics or place them directly into the gums to help reduce bacteria.

If the gum disease has advanced, your dentist may need to perform surgery to reach deeper below your gums. They might also perform bone grafts to rebuild lost support or gum grafts to cover exposed roots.¹ No matter how severe your gum disease is, proper brushing, flossing, and the use of mouthwash can help reduce your risk in the future.

Avoid periodontal disease for a healthy smile

While gum disease may be common, that doesn't make it any less important to treat. If you notice any discomfort in your teeth and gums, talk to your dentist to schedule a routine cleaning. It may be nothing, but catching periodontal disease early can save you a lot of headaches in the long run.

Contact Information:

Name: Sonakshi Murze
Email: [email protected]
Job Title: Manager

SOURCE: iQuanti

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