PERIODONTAL DISEASE
Periodontal is a term used to describe that affects the gums ,bone and surrouding structure of the teeth.The 2001 Guinness book of World Records lists Periodontal Diseas as the no.1 disease affecting mankind.The most common types of adult periodontitis are
- GINGIVITIS
- PERIDONTITIS
- GINGIVITIS
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums .This happens when bacteria increases in mass to form a paste like substance called plaque. Accumulation of plaque and tartar covering the tooth causes redness of your teeth and bleeding of gums on brushing.If neglected at this stage plaque becomes hard calcified tartar [calculus] which increases bleeding of the gums accompanying with pain and bad breath.Not taken care would lead to pocket formation in your gums.Leading to increase in food lodgement between the teeth resulting in increase in bad breath and resulting PERIODONTITS.
PERIODONTITS
It is an advanced stage of gum disease causing increase in bleeding gums accompanied with pus discharge and foul smell.Some of the warning signs include:
- Bleeding gums
- Red, tender,puff or swollen gums
- Pain or tenderness
- Itchy sensation
- Tooth sensitivity
- Constant bad breath or taste
- Gums that are pulling away from teeth[gum recession]
- Loosening of teeth causing
- Shifting of teeth resulting ill fitting oral appliance[partial denture]
- If left untreated can lead to tooth loss.
Research indicates periodontal disease may contribute to
- An increased risk of heart attack
- An increased risk of delivering preterm,low birth weight babies
- Difficulty controlling blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
PREVETION OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE
- Good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly can stop the disease to progress
- Eating a balanced diet to supply nutriets for good health
- Proper use of tooth brush, tooth paste, dental floss ,mouth wash and massaging of gums
- Drinking at least seven glass of water
TREATMENTS
An evalutation is done using x-rays, periodontal probe and depending on the disease progression the following treatments are used:
- Usually cleaning [scaling] is required for gingivitis at regular intervals
- Scaling is done to scrape off tartar and calculus from the tooth and root surface allowing the gums to heal and become healthy
- In initial stage of periodontitis Root planing is done to smooth rough surfaces of root and allow the gums to heal
- Surgery may be needed in certain cases to properly treat the disease.
Early detection is important in the treatment of periodontal disease .in addition , you prevent destruction of gums. Cost of the treatment would be bare minimal.
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