Periodontitis, also known as gum disease, is an infection of the gums, which can cause the gum to lose its support and eventually die if not treated. This can lead to food being trapped in the pocket between your teeth and your gum, leading to bacterial growth and inflammation. Typically, this happens when bacteria spread through a red blood cell as it travels through an artery and is then pumped throughout the body. Periodontitis occurs when the toxins found in plaque begin to irritate or inflame the gingiva (gum tissue).

Symptoms of Periodontitis

Some common symptoms include:

1. Pus-filled pockets around the teeth
2. Loose teeth
3. Sensitivity in your teeth and gums
4. Bleeding when you brush your teeth or when eating certain foods
5. Bad breath caused by the infected food particles trapped between your gum and tooth
6. Sore, red gums that are swollen
7. Longer-looking teeth because of gum recession
8. Painful chewing

Causes

A build-up of bacteria in the mouth can occur when the gums produce more mucus than usual. Bacteria can spread from one area of your mouth to another through saliva or when you brush or floss. The bacteria that cause this build-up can be found in the ever-present plaque on your teeth. You are most likely to suffer from periodontitis if you have had problems with teeth in the past, such as gum disease or tooth decay, or if you have a specific oral health problem, such as diabetes or a mouth-breathing disorder.

Prevention

There are several ways that you can prevent this disease from developing. Check your teeth regularly to make sure there are no signs of decay. This can be done using a dental check-up or visiting a dentist at the Dental office in Austin. It is essential to clean your teeth at least twice a day thoroughly and use toothpaste that has been specially formulated to clean and remove plaque-causing bacteria. Also, avoid smoking, eat a healthy diet, and drink plenty of water or soda water.

Risk Factors

1. Smoking
2. Certain diseases, such as diabetes
3. Hypertension
4. Family history of periodontal disease
5. Obesity
6. Conditions that cause decreased immunity, such as leukemia and HIV/AIDS
7. Medications that thin the blood
8. Poor oral hygiene
9. Dry mouth syndrome

Treatment

Periodontitis is usually treated by a periodontist (a dentist specializing in gums and supporting bone) who may request a professional cleaning by a dental hygienist, administer medications to kill bacteria, or sometimes require surgery to treat gum disease.
Severe periodontitis can be treated by:

1. Pocket elimination surgery- involves removing the pocket and surrounding tissue, which may require local anesthesia.
2. Antibiotic treatment – the periodontist will inject antibiotics into the gums to kill bacteria and increase blood flow to the area, leaving a burning sensation in your mouth. You may take antibiotics for 3-4 weeks to see if this helps
3. Laser treatment- This involves the dentist using a laser to burn the area to eliminate bacteria, which can cause extreme pain
4. Tissue and gum surgery- involves removing the tissue around the tooth and bone to eliminate gum disease.

Conclusion

Visit us at the Dental office in Austin to schedule an appointment with a periodontist.