Periodontal diseases (also known as gum diseases) are infections of the gum and bone that hold the teeth in place. If Periodontal problems are not treated, they can eventually cause tooth loss. Periodontal diseases are often painless and you may not be aware that you have a problem until gums and the supporting bone are seriously damaged. The good news is that periodontal diseases often can be treated in the early stages with a treatment called scaling and root planing. Plaque or bacteria that clings to teeth and the gums is the cause of irritation and infection that can destroy your gum and bone tissue.
Signs of Periodontal disease are: Bleeding gums, red and swollen gums, gums that are pulled away from the teeth,Persistent bad breath,pus between the teeth and changes in your bite and loosening of your permanent teeth.
Prevention is the first line of defense and includes good daily oral hygiene. regular dental check ups and cleanings. Non-surgical treatment includes Scaling and Root planing using ultrasonic instruments to remove tartar and smooth root surfaces as well as removing toxins deposited by bacteria under the gums. Use of local antibiotics might be needed to control the infection in the periodontal pockets and reducing these pocket depths. Once Scaling and Root planing is completed if pockets stay more than 3 mm additional periodontal treatment might be needed. Periodontitis will not go away by itself. left untreated, surgery may be needed to save affected teeth. Genetics, smoking and hormonal changes can aversely affect our gum condition or healing process.
