Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that occurs when harmful bacteria in the mouth grow out of control. If untreated, it can lead to painful teeth and gums, tooth loss, and other health problems. Periodontal disease affects about 46 percent of the population.
What Causes Periodontal Disease?
The most common cause of the periodontal disease is an accumulation of plaque and tartar on the teeth. This causes the gums to become inflamed and irritated. If plaque and tartar are not removed from the teeth, bacteria in the mouth will release toxins that make the gums inflamed and infected. When this happens, gums pull away from the teeth, and infections are able to enter the deeper layers of the gums, leading to further damage and tooth loss. Other causes include:
Smoking and chewing tobacco
Infection caused by certain health conditions such as diabetes
Injury or inflammation caused by poorly fitting dentures or braces
Allergies or asthma
Genetic factors
Hormonal imbalances in pregnant women
Medications (antibiotics, anticonvulsants)
Lack of oral care
What Are the Signs of Periodontal Disease?
Here are some signs that may indicate that you have periodontal disease:
Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
Gum recession (the gum line recedes from the teeth)
Pus between teeth and gums
Receding gum line
Loose teeth
What Are the Treatments for Periodontal Disease?
In mild cases of periodontal disease, non-surgical treatments can be used to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Here are some non-surgical treatments:
Scaling and root planing: The dentist will remove plaque and tartar from below your gum line using special pliers or scrappers. The area will then be cleaned with a special antibacterial liquid. This procedure helps relieve inflammation and infection in your gums.
Locally placed antibiotic called Arestin: "Arestin is placed right under your gum line, delivering the antibiotics minocycline directly into the bacteria-filled pocket. The antibiotics are released over time targeting the bacteria and reducing pocket depth, to help your gums heal. It continues to target bacteria and fight infection after your dental visit" (Orapharma).
Laser therapy: A laser is used to kill bacteria in your mouth. This treatment is usually performed on patients who have gum disease in multiple areas of their mouth because lasers can treat only small areas at a time.
Surgical treatments can be performed if none of the above treatments work for you.
Contact Sugar Land Dental in Sugar Land, TX, for the best dental care. To book an appointment, call (281) 980-5100 or visit us at 101 Southwestern Blvd Suite 204, Sugar Land, TX 77478.
