🦷 Periodontal Disease & Treatment
Periodontal disease (gum disease) is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth, caused mainly by plaque buildup. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and other health problems.
⚠️ Signs & Symptoms
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath
- Receding gums or longer-looking teeth
- Loose teeth in advanced cases
🦠 Stages of Periodontal Disease
- Gingivitis (Early Stage)
- Inflammation of the gums
- Usually reversible with good oral hygiene
- Periodontitis (Advanced Stage)
- Gums pull away from teeth, forming pockets
- Bone and tissue supporting teeth may be destroyed
- Can lead to tooth loss
🧼 Treatment Options
- Professional Cleaning
- Scaling and root planing: removes plaque and tartar above and below the gumline
- Medications
- Antibiotic gels, mouth rinses, or oral antibiotics to fight infection
- Surgical Treatments (for severe cases)
- Flap surgery: cleans deep pockets
- Bone or tissue grafts: restore lost structures
🏠 Home Care & Prevention
- Brush teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss once daily
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash
- Regular dental checkups (every 6 months)
- Avoid smoking and maintain healthy nutrition
💡 Key Point:
Early detection of gum disease makes treatment easier and prevents permanent damage. Gingivitis can be reversed, but periodontitis requires professional care.
If you want, I can make a simple step-by-step daily routine to prevent and control periodontal disease at home. Do you want me to do that?
