STAR SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

MALINDI-KENYA Est. 1993

Periodontal (gum) disease

Periodontal disease is a collective term for inflammation of the structures supporting the tooth. The simplest form of gum disease (gingivitis) is often a reaction to build up of plaque on the junction of the gum and the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that grows on surfaces of the mouth including teeth and tongue. It builds up in rough areas, difficult to clean areas especially between the teeth.

If left untreated, plaque then burrows underneath the gums and creates a space between the gums and teeth. This space is called a 'pocket'. Inflammation around the pocket leads to gradual bone loss around the tooth and leads to the more severe form of disease, Periodontitis.

Periodontitis, commonly known as gum disease, is a serious oral health issue that affects millions of people around the world. It is caused by the inflammation of the tissues that surround and support the teeth, and if left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss, bone damage, and even systemic health problems such as diabetes and heart disease and aunfavourable pregnancy outcomes.

Fortunately, there are several effective treatments for periodontitis that can help you preserve your teeth and gums and prevent further damage. In this post, we will discuss what periodontitis is, its causes, and the different treatment options available to you.

What is periodontitis?

As earlier mentioned, Periodontitis is a type of gum disease that occurs when the gums become inflamed and infected due to the accumulation of bacteria and plaque around the teeth. The bacteria release toxins that can damage the tissues that support the teeth, including the gums, periodontal ligament, and bone. Over time, this can lead to the formation of pockets between the teeth and gums, which can become filled with bacteria and debris and cause further damage.

Other factors that can increase your risk of developing periodontitis include:

• Smoking and tobacco use
• Genetics
• Hormonal changes (such as during pregnancy or menopause)
• Poor nutrition
• Certain medications that reduce saliva flow
• Medical conditions such as diabetes and HIV/AIDS

What are the symptoms of periodontitis?

The symptoms of periodontitis can vary depending on the severity of the disease. Some common signs include:

• Swollen, red, or tender gums
• Bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing
• Receding gums
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Bad breath or a persistent bad taste in the mouth
• Pus between the teeth and gums
• Changes in the way your teeth fit together when biting or chewing

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment can help prevent further damage and preserve your oral health.

How is periodontitis treated?

The treatment for periodontitis depends on the severity of the disease. In mild cases, a thorough cleaning known as scaling and root planing may be enough to remove the bacteria and plaque from the teeth and gums. This involves removing the tartar and bacteria from the tooth surfaces and root surfaces, smoothing out rough spots on the roots to eliminate bacterial toxins and provide a clean surface for the gum tissue to reattach.

In more advanced cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged tissue and restore the structure of the gums and bone. Some common surgical procedures for periodontitis include:

• Flap surgery: This involves lifting back the gums to remove tartar and bacteria and smoothing out the bone surfaces to promote gum tissue reattachment.

• Bone and tissue grafts: These procedures involve using grafting material to restore bone and gum tissue that has been lost due to periodontitis.

• Guided tissue regeneration: This involves using a special membrane to encourage the growth of new bone and gum tissue.

In addition to these treatments, it is important to practice good oral hygiene at home and schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings to prevent the progression of periodontitis and maintain your oral health. Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, improving your nutrition, and managing any underlying medical conditions that can contribute to periodontitis are also recommended.

Take care of your oral health and seek treatment

REMEMBER: PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE