|
Periodontal
disease is an infection of the
tissues that support your teeth.
Your gum tissue is not attached to
the teeth as high as it may seem.
There is a very shallow v-shaped
crevice called a sulcus between the
tooth and gums. Periodontal diseases
attack just below the gum line in
the sulcus, where they cause the
attachment of the tooth and its
supporting tissues to break down. As
the tissues are damaged, the sulcus
develops into a pocket: generally,
the more severe the disease, the
greater the depth of the pocket.
Periodontal
diseases are classified according to
the severity of the disease. The two
major stages are gingivitis and
periodontitis. Gingivitis is a
milder and reversible form of
periodontal disease that only
affects the gums. Gingivitis may
lead to more serious, destructive
forms of periodontal disease called
periodontitis.
Some
factors increase the risk
of developing periodontal disease:
- Tobacco
smoking or chewing
- Systemic
diseases such as diabetes
- Some
types of medication such as
steroids, some types of
anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer
therapy drugs, some calcium
channel blockers and oral
contraceptives
- Bridges
that no longer fit properly
- Crooked
teeth
- Fillings
that have become defective
- Pregnancy
or use of oral contraceptives
Several
warning signs that
can signal a problem:
- Gums that
bleed easily
- Red,
swollen, tender gums
- Gums that
have pulled away from the teeth
-
Persistent bad breath or bad
taste
- Permanent
teeth that are loose or
separating
- Any
change in the way your teeth fit
together when you bite
- Any
change in the fit of partial
dentures
It is
possible to have periodontal disease
and have no warning signs.
That is one reason why regular
dental checkups and periodontal
examinations are very important.
Treatment methods depend upon the
type of disease and how far the
condition has progressed. Good oral
hygiene at home is essential to help
keep periodontal disease from
becoming more serious or recurring.
You don’t have to lose teeth
to periodontal disease.
Brush, clean between your teeth, eat
a balanced diet, and schedule
regular dental visits for a lifetime
of healthy smiles. |
