Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is an inflammation that affects the supporting tissues of the teeth in the periodontium, such as the gums, bone, and ligaments, and can progress silently until it causes irreversible damage. Unlike gingivitis, which only affects the gums, periodontal disease causes bone loss and can lead to tooth mobility and loss.
How to identify it?
Bleeding during brushing or flossing, receding gums, “elongated” teeth, loose teeth, bad breath, and food buildup are important warning signs.
Why is it dangerous to your overall health?
Research shows that severe periodontal infections can be associated with several systemic conditions, such as:
Cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and vascular disorders;
- Premature and low birth weight babies;
- Infections in orthopedic prostheses;
- Pneumonia and abscesses in organs;
- Difficulty controlling diabetes, with elevated glycosylated hemoglobin.
The main cause is always the same: accumulated bacterial plaque, capable of reaching the bloodstream and triggering inflammatory and infectious processes in other parts of the body.
Treatment and Prevention
The good news? Periodontal disease can be controlled.
Treatment involves scaling and root planing, and may include surgery in more advanced cases. Prevention depends on daily hygiene such as an extra-soft toothbrush + interdental brush + dental floss. Periodic cleanings at the dentist’s office are tailored to each patient.
Your mouth speaks volumes about your health, and taking care of your periodontium is taking care of your entire body.
Schedule your evaluation and keep your oral and general health always protected.