What is Periodontitis?

Periodontitis

Are the gums surrounding your teeth red and puffy? Do they bleed when you brush? Do you have chronic bad breath or a taste of metal in your mouth?  If you answered yes to more than one of those questions, you may have periodontitis.

Periodontitis is a gum disease that develops on account of bacterial growth in your mouth. If left untreated, it can lead to the destruction of the tissues that enclose your teeth, resulting in eventual tooth loss.

Gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums, can potentially lead to periodontitis. Gingivitis typically happens when significant plaque build-up causes gums to bleed. Although it is alarming, it is not irreversible because bone damage has not occurred yet. Once gingivitis has advanced to periodontitis, bone is affected and the inner layer of the gums starts to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that fill with debris, promoting infection. When periodontitis is not treated, you’re faced with the eventual break down of bone, causing the teeth to lose their anchoring and ultimately fall out.    

Age, smoking, hormonal changes, illnesses such as diabetes or HIV/AIDS, and some genetic factors can put you at risk for periodontitis. 

Bear in mind that plaque hardens and turns to tartar, a rock hard substance on the teeth that can only be removed by a dentist or oral hygienist.  A yearly visit to your dentist will not only uphold your general health but can also greatly decrease your chances of developing periodontitis. 

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