Periodontitis: A dental ailment we should better be aware of

By sound of it, Periodontitis seems scary, and something to stay away from. Well, that is completely true! Periodontitis is swelling of gums around  teeth. It is a severe gum infection that can dam jawbone when left untreated. gum starts to swell (because of infection) and begins to pull away from  teeth. This causes supporting tissue and jaw bone to deteriorate. Even though it can be painless, but it may still le to several symptoms that are better to avoid. 

Why should we care about Periodontitis?

• According to recent studies, scientists have found connections between gum disease and heart ailments. Research suggests that gum infections may increase risk of clogged arteries and thus increase risk of strokes as well. (Source: NCBI)
• In ar report, it has been found that microbiota in  mouth may affect gut health. This fact has been reported in high impact dental and medical journals as well. (Source: NCBI)

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Causes for Periodontitis

• Poor oral hygiene is leing cause of gum infections
• Hormonal factors, illnesses like diabetes, cancer, and HIV can also raise risk of causing gum infections

Signs and Symptoms of Periodontitis; How to identify?

One should always consult a dentist for a professional opinion and right course of treatment. Periodontitis is caused by bacteria present in dental plaque. When your body tries to get rid of bacteria, it causes inflammation around tooth, i.e., swollen, bleeding gums along with gum inflammation (which is first st of periodontitis). When dam is severe, teeth become loose, and gums start to recede.

• Check your gums; healthy gums are supposed to be firm and pale pink that fit snuggly around teeth.
• Your gums are tender and start to bleed after brushing/
• Your teeth feel loose.
• B breath and a foul taste in your mouth.
• Signs of receding gums (gums that pull away from your teeth) and make your teeth look longer than usual.

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Periodontitis Treatment

• Gum disease can only be prevented with proper plaque control.
• Brush and floss twice daily. You can floss (to remove plaque present between teeth) once at night. Antibacterial mouth rinses are also found to aid in eliminating bacteria that cause plaque and gum disease. (Source: American Dental Association)
• Visit your dentist at regular intervals.
• Smoking reduces chances of treatment working, so don't smoke while you are focusing on treating your dental ailments.
• Periodontitis is a long-term inflammatory disease and will recur if good oral hygiene is t maintained.

Current research shows that periodontitis is t -dependent, and during last ten years, number of reported cases of periodontitis in India has seen an alarming rise. (Source: NCBI). 

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