Periodontitis Explained
Periodontitis is a type of gum disease that differs from gingivitis in that it causes infection in addition to inflammation. Infection occurs when the plaque in your mouth reaches a point where your body's immune system becomes overwhelmed and can no longer fight off the high levels of bacteria living on the plaque. As a result of the inflammation and infected tissue, gaps open up between your teeth and gum line. These gaps provide a hospitable environment for bacteria to thrive and multiply and can ultimately lead to tooth loss. Here's an overview of the causes, symptoms and treatment options for periodontitis:
Causes
The main cause of periodontitis is the build-up of plaque, which is a sticky substance that attracts bacteria and forms on your teeth when you eat a diet high in sugar and starch without maintaining a thorough oral hygiene regime. Plaque can cause tartar to form over your teeth, which traps bacteria along your gum line, and it's at this stage you start experiencing inflammation along your gum line. Additionally, medical conditions that suppress your immune system, such as diabetes or lupus, leave you at greater risk of developing periodontitis, as a compromised immune system can struggle to fight off even small amounts of bacteria.
Symptoms
The following are symptoms of periodontitis:
- Red or swollen gums
- Gums bleed and are painful when brushing or eating
- Gum line receding and exposing root of tooth
- Increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods
- Affected teeth may feel loose
Treatment Options
Your dentist will recommend a treatment plan based on the severity of the periodontitis, which can be established during a routine examination. You'll be given antibiotics to treat the infection and will undergo one or more of the following treatments:
- Surgery To Close The Gaps - The gaps between the affected teeth and gum line will be cleaned and your dentist will use small sutures to pull the gum tissue over and close the gaps.
- Tissue Grafts - This treatment can protect the roots of your teeth when your gums have receded. It involves having tissue from the roof of your mouth grafted along your gum line.
- Regenerative Periodontal Therapy - This treatment is generally reserved for severe cases of periodontitis, which can be categorised by damage to the roots of your teeth. Regenerative periodontal therapy aims to save your teeth by using a prescription gel to encourage the regeneration of the roots and surrounding tissue.
If you're experiencing any of the symptoms of periodontitis, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to minimise the damage to your teeth and gums.
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