Receiving a periodontitis diagnosis is a serious wake-up call regarding your oral health and general health. Severe stages of the periodontal disease usually involve the destruction of soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. Tooth loss is only one of the problems associated with untreated periodontitis. And it is that same periodontal disease that may contribute to the development of general health problems, such as heart disease, stroke and respiratory problems. The good thing about all this is that periodontitis is a problem that can be prevented by a local Dentist in Franklin MA.
What is periodontitis?
Periodontitis is a progressive disease that occurs when inflammation of the gums seeps below the gum line. Over time, the infection begins to destroy the underlying tissues, ligaments and bones that support the teeth. Considering that periodontitis is caused largely by the accumulation of dental plaque and calculus, maintaining good oral hygiene is the way to control this common problem.
Risk factors for periodontitis
Besides the main risk factor mentioned, poor oral hygiene, there are other situations that increase the likelihood of having periodontitis:
• Malnutrition
• Gingivitis
• Diabetes
• Tobacco use
• Family history
• Drug Addiction
• Age (older than 35 years)
• Bad dental restorations
• Taking medicines that reduce salivary flow
The three phases of periodontitis
Periodontitis is easily treatable in its early stages, but may worsen rapidly if the early signs are ignored. Here are the three phases of the disease.
Initial periodontitis: Redness of the gums, bleeding and increased sensitivity are the symptoms of early periodontitis. Other common indicators include bad breath, tooth mobility, changes in bite or problems with fixed dentures and bridges. You should seek help from a Dentist in Franklin MA during this stage. Moderate Periodontitis: At this stage the damage done to the tissues that support the teeth is nearly irreversible. The gingival recession becomes visible. Also periodontal pockets and spaces between teeth and gums are created. These factors facilitate the accumulation of food debris in the area, accelerating the work of bacteria and increases tissue damage. Advanced periodontitis: Symptoms include significant gingival recession, the periodontal pockets are full of pus and there is a significant increase in sensitivity to hot or cold foods. Bone loss and tooth mobility are the last effects of this phase before the tooth falls out. Click Here to learn more.
