Periodontal Disease Treatment and Management

Periodontal Disease Treatment and Management in Rowland Hacienda Dental

Periodontal disease is a chronic infection that affects the tissues responsible for holding the teeth in place. The term "periodontal" means "around the tooth" and refers to the periodontium, which includes the gums, ligaments, and bones surrounding the teeth. Poor oral hygiene is a major contributing factor, as it can lead to the formation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that builds up on the teeth and eventually hardens. Over time, this infection can destroy the structures that support the teeth, including the gums, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone, potentially resulting in tooth loss. Since periodontal disease is progressive, its severity can vary depending on the specific form of gum disease present. Early detection and proper treatment are essential to prevent long-term damage and preserve oral health.

What Cause Periodontitis?

Periodontitis often begins with plaque, a sticky film mainly composed of bacteria. Plaque forms on your teeth when sugars and starches in food interact with the bacteria naturally present in your mouth. Although daily brushing and flossing help remove plaque, it can quickly reaccumulate. If not removed, plaque hardens under the gumline into tartar, which is much harder to eliminate without professional dental cleaning. Both plaque and tartar harbor bacteria that can cause significant damage over time. This buildup can lead to gingivitis, the mildest stage of gum disease, characterized by gum irritation and swelling at the base of your teeth. If detected early, gingivitis is reversible through professional care and good oral hygiene.However, untreated gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious condition marked by persistent gum inflammation. This leads to the formation of deep pockets between the teeth and gums, which fill with bacteria, plaque, and tartar.

Over time, these pockets deepen and the infection can destroy the supporting tissue and bone, potentially resulting in tooth loss. Moreover, chronic inflammation associated with periodontitis can strain the immune system and contribute to other health issues.

Don’t Wait for Treatment

Don’t wait to seek treatment for periodontitis. Early action is crucial. Left untreated, this serious gum infection can lead to tooth loss and allow harmful bacteria to enter your bloodstream through the gum tissue. These bacteria can affect other areas of your body and are linked to serious health problems, including respiratory disease, rheumatoid arthritis, coronary artery disease, preterm birth and low birth weight, and difficulty controlling blood sugar in people with diabetes.

Treatment, which may be provided by a dentist or a periodontist, a specialist in gum disease, aims to thoroughly clean the pockets around your teeth and prevent further damage to gum tissue and bone. Dental hygienists often play an essential role in this care. The sooner you begin treatment, the better your chances for a successful outcome. Along with professional care, maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine, managing any related health conditions, and quitting tobacco use are key steps in protecting both your oral and overall health. Don’t delay. Your smile and your health depend on it.