About Peridontal Disease

Overview

Over the course of time, the teeth are subject to acquiring a colorless, sticky film called plaque. The bacteria that plaque contains can build up and cause inflammation, infection and extensive damage to the teeth and gums. This is called periodontal disease and there are two forms.

Significance

The teeth are solid, bone-like structures in the mouth that have a strong exterior material called enamel. Without teeth, you would not be able to bite and chew food properly. Periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss if it is left untreated.

Types

Gingivitis is the more mild of the two forms of periodontal disease. With this condition, the gums can become red, swollen and they can also bleed. Periodontitis is the more severe form and it appears when gingivitis has progressed. This type of periodontal disease can cause the gums to become irritated from toxins that form from the bacteria in plaque.

Features

The toxins from periodontitis that appear can cause the body to turn on itself due to an inflammatory response. The tissues and bones that hold the teeth together can become broken down, destroyed and spaces can appear in between the gums and teeth. As the disease gets worse and the gums get more infected, the teeth become loose and often need to be taken out.

Causes

Plaque is the destructive force behind both gingivitis and periodontitis. It forms, then progresses to a substance called "tartar." This is a hard material that forms when plaque remains on the teeth for several days in a row. The main cause of these substances appearing is poor oral hygiene.

Treatments

A dentist, periodontist or dental hygienist can perform various treatments that are designed to clean the bacteria. Scaling is a process where bacteria and tartar are removed from the gums and teeth with dental instruments. In a procedure called "root planing," the root surfaces get planed down, which discourages further tartar build-up. Flap surgery is a more invasive procedure where incisions are made in the gums and they are pulled back to more effectively plane down the roots. When your teeth appear longer than normal due to receding gum lines, soft tissue grafts can be attached to the areas that are affected. These grafts are taken from the roof of the mouth, also called the palate. In less severe periodontal disease, treatments would include a thorough dental cleaning, flossing, regular brushing and the use of mouth wash with antiseptic.

Prevention/Solution

Preventive measures can be taken to avoid periodontal disease. Twice-daily brushing and once a day flossing can keep tartar, plaque and bacteria build-up minimal. Getting regular check-ups every six to twelve months to get your teeth professionally cleaned can act as a further preventive measure.