Can you stop periodontitis getting worse?
Periodontitis is a severe gum infection that affects the tissues that support your teeth. If left untreated, periodontitis can lead to tooth loss and other health complications. However, the good news is that it's possible to stop periodontitis from getting worse with proper care and treatment. In this article, we'll explore some of the ways you can prevent and treat periodontitis.
What is periodontitis?
Periodontitis is a type of gum disease that affects the tissues that support your teeth, including the gums, bones, and ligaments. It's caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. If left untreated, periodontitis can cause significant damage to your gums and teeth, leading to tooth loss and other health complications.
Symptoms of periodontitis
The early signs of periodontitis include red, swollen, and bleeding gums, as well as bad breath and a bad taste in your mouth. As the disease progresses, you may experience other symptoms, such as receding gums, loose teeth, and changes in your bite. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to see a dentist as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Causes of periodontitis
Periodontitis is caused by the buildup of plaque on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and gums. Over time, the bacteria in plaque can damage your gums and teeth, leading to gum disease and other oral health problems.
Other factors that can increase your risk of developing periodontitis include smoking, diabetes, hormonal changes, medications, and a weakened immune system. If you're at risk of periodontitis, it's important to take steps to prevent the disease from developing.
How to stop periodontitis from getting worse
The best way to stop periodontitis from getting worse is to take proper care of your teeth and gums. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing regularly, and using an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria.
It's also important to eat a healthy diet, avoid smoking, and manage any underlying health conditions that can increase your risk of periodontitis. If you notice any signs of gum disease, such as bleeding or swollen gums, it's important to see a dentist right away.
Professional treatment for periodontitis
If you have periodontitis, your dentist may recommend professional treatment to help stop the disease from getting worse. This may include scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums.
In more severe cases, your dentist may recommend surgery to repair damaged tissues and bone. This may include flap surgery, which involves lifting the gums to remove tartar and bacteria, or bone grafting, which involves adding bone to your jaw to support your teeth.
Prevention tips for periodontitis
The best way to prevent periodontitis is to take good care of your teeth and gums. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing regularly, and using an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria. It's also important to eat a healthy diet, avoid smoking, and manage any underlying health conditions that can increase your risk of gum disease.
If you're at risk of periodontitis, it's important to see a dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can help you identify early signs of gum disease and recommend appropriate treatment to prevent
