Many patients learn they have periodontitis (gum disease) very late in the process, even in advanced stages. The reason is that periodontitis gives few warning signs. A person may think they have clean and healthy teeth, when in fact their gums have periodontitis. In fact, it has been called “the invisible epidemic,” due to its high prevalence and the fact it often passes unnoticed.
This gum disease affects a vast percentage of the population and is the leading cause of tooth loss in the world population. It is an infectious-inflammatory disease that damages the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Periodontitis is produced by the accumulation of bacteria and calculus (tartar) around the teeth. The only sure way to see if you suffer from this is to see your local Dentist in West Creek.
If the disease only affects the gums, it is gingivitis. However, when it comes to affect the gums and bone supporting the teeth, it is called periodontitis. There is a genetic susceptibility, along with other risk factors, most of which the most common are tobacco and diabetes. Many people are unaware that they have gum problems, mainly because these diseases are usually painless except in very specific cases.
However, you should see a Dentist in West Creek when you notice any of these signs: red gums, swollen gums, bleeding gums (either when brushing or spontaneously), bad taste or bad breath (halitosis), tooth mobility, tooth hypersensitivity, receding gums, abscesses or boils on the gums and separation or gaps between teeth. The aim of treatment is to eliminate the accumulation of bacteria and tartar around and inside the gums. This is for the treatment of disinfection through anti-inflammatory and mechanical hand (scalers) and/or sonic and ultrasonic instruments. It is a painless treatment, as it can be performed under local anesthesia by your General Dentist.
In cases of moderate and/or advanced periodontitis, a surgical procedure may be required to reach the bottom of the periodontal bags. These techniques are often used to regenerate bone destroyed by periodontal disease. If you suffer from a chronic disease (such as diabetes), once you are treated for periodontal disease, maintenance visits and checks must be performed every 3-6 months to prevent relapse and recurrence of the disease. Furthermore, it is necessary to control smoking to prevent recurrence of the disease. If you would like to know more, please contact your dentist in West Creek today.
