Gum or periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that keep teeth in place. Periodontal diseases are usually caused by plaque formation due to poor oral hygiene. This condition is manageable and treatable only when it is detected early. Early treatment can help individuals avoid the adverse effects of periodontal disease.
How To Prevent Periodontal Disease?
Flossing and brushing at least twice a day can help prevent it. These will extract plaque from the teeth. It is also vital to see the dentist at least twice yearly for a professional dental cleaning. But the dentist may suggest it more than twice a year for a patient who has symptoms of the gum disease. The dentist will clear both plaque and tartar during the checkup as the tartar can only be removed using professional help.
Consequences Of Periodontal Disease
The longer plaque and tartar stay on the teeth, the more dangerous they will become. The bacteria can ultimately cause inflammation of the gums. It is called gingivitis. In this, the gums get red, swollen, and usually bleed easily. It is often reversible with regular cleaning by a periodontist in Orem and careful brushing and flossing every day.
If left untreated, gingivitis progresses to periodontitis. In the case of periodontitis, the gums draw away from the teeth and form small pockets that get infected. The body’s immune system will fight the bacteria as the plaque spreads below the gumline. The body’s natural reaction to disease and bacterial toxins will start breaking down the bone & the connective tissue that keeps teeth in place.
Damage caused by periodontal disease may become permanent if it goes untreated. The gums, bones, and tissue supporting teeth will be destroyed if not treated. The teeth may also get loose and will need to be removed. While it is impossible to reverse some dental issues, the disease can be controlled and treated.
Various restorative procedures can help people retrieve lost teeth and bones. It is still unclear if periodontal disease can cause issues beyond the mouth. Periodontal disease is associated with particular health issues. But it has not yet been specified whether it is the cause of these issues.
What Are The Risk Factors Involved?
Bacterial plaque is the actual cause of periodontal disease. But other risk factors also boost the chances of developing the disease. These include smoking or chewing tobacco, poor oral hygiene, diabetes, etc. Pregnancy and certain drugs are also other common risk factors. Regular dental checkups are crucial if any of these risk factors are present.
Periodontist In Orem
If any periodontal disease goes untreated, the bones and the supporting tissues will eventually get destroyed. It can result in tooth loss and even permanent damage. But, with regular dental exams from the periodontist in Orem, it can be detected early and treated. So, contact us, our periodontists can help you avoid tooth loss and other harmful effects. If you think you have periodontal disease, you must see your periodontist in Orem as soon as possible. Early detection is essential for managing and treating harmful conditions before it gets too late.