What is Periodontal Disease?
Your teeth are supported by your jaw bones and by ligaments connecting your teeth to the jaw bones. Your gums then lie on top of the jaw bones.
The area of jaw bone supporting each tooth along with the ligaments are termed the Periodontium . Inflammation and break down of this area is called periodontitis or periodontal disease.
Periodontal disease Signs and Symptoms
1. Bleeding gums is often a later stage of gingivitis
2. In smokers, the gums may not bleed which can mask the severity of the condition
3. Sore gums or painful gums
4. Gum recession (receding gums) due to erosion of the underlying supporting tissues
5. Sensitive teeth as a result of the gum recession (receding gums)
6. Possible food trapping
7. Possible abscesses in the gums.
8. Black spaces appearing between your teeth (black triangles)
9. Bad breath/halitosis
10. Loose teeth
Risk factors for Periodontitis
• Genetics - some people are at increased risk of periodontitis despite good oral hygiene but it is definitely worsened if combined with poor oral hygiene.
• Gingivitis
• Poor oral health habits - poor oral hygiene leading to chronic periodontitis
• Tobacco use
• Diabetes - poor blood sugar control linked directly to poor gum condition
• Compromised immune system
• Poor nutrition
• Certain medications
• Hormonal changes
• Poor-fitting crowns, bridges and fillings
• Unusual bite problems or tooth grinding/clenching
•
• Periodontal Surgery
• If your periodontal disease does not respond to repeated conventional treatment despite good oral hygiene and good root surface debridement then you may need surgical treatment.
• This is usually carried out by a specialist periodontist and will involve lifting your gum to clean directly beneath it before suturing it back into place.
• A periodontist can also reposition your gums where they have receded, graft bone into areas of lost bone and a number of other procedures to help treat or overcome periodontal disease and early tooth loss.
Tips to help you avoid Periodontal Disease:
• Brush your teeth effectively.
• See your dentist and hygienist regularly .
• It is imperative that you take their recommendations seriously !
• Floss daily or use inter-dental brushes/floss sticks to ensure good cleaning between your teeth
Please feel free to speak with your dentist or hygienist regarding your periodontal care!
Oshawa Centre Dental
905-571-2443