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What Is Periodontal Disease

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Mikoe Yue
What Is Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease refers to a chronic bacterial infection of the gums and bone supporting the teeth. It can affect one tooth or several teeth and if left untreated, may lead to tooth loss.

 

The most common form of periodontal disease includes gingivitis and periodontitis. In the early stages, only the gums are infected (gingivitis). Later, it spreads to the bone surrounding the tooth and other supporting tissues. Finally, the tooth becomes loose and may fall out.

What are the common signs and symptoms of periodontal disease?

You may have periodontal disease if you have:

1) Bleeding gums when brushing

2) Red, swollen, puffy-looking or tender gums

3) Abscesses on the gum

4) Pus secreting from between the teeth and gums

5) Shaky teeth

6) Teeth appearing to drift apart from its original position

7) Receding gum line (gum recession).

8) Persistent bad breath.

9) Vague discomfort or dull-ache of gums and teeth.

 

What causes periodontal disease.

The main cause of the periodontal disease is bacterial plaque. Our mouths are full of bacteria. These bacteria, along with salivary proteins, constantly form a sticky colorless "plaque" on teeth.

Plaque that is not removed can harden and form bacteria-harboring calculus or "tartar" over time. Calculus can not be removed by daily tooth brushing and only a professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist can remove it.

If left untreated, the bones, gums and connective tissue are destroyed. The teeth may eventually become loose and have to be removed.

How is periodontal disease treated?

The main goal of www.periodontics.com.sg  is to control the bleeding gum infection, prevent disease progression, and return to good oral health.

1) Scaling and Root Planing (Non-Surgical treatment).

The periodontist  Singapore removes the plaque through a deep-cleaning method called scaling and root planing. Scaling means scraping off the tartar from above and below the gumline. Root planing involves using special instruments to remove tough calculus and bacteria deposits along the root surfaces under local anesthesia.

2) Gum surgery (surgical treatment).

If deep pockets and gum inflammation remain following initial periodontal  treatment with a deep cleansing, a periodontist may perform gum surgery to remove residual tartar in deep pockets or to reduce the periodontal pocket and make it easier for you, your periodontist Singapore and hygienist to keep the area clean.

What can I do to prevent gum disease?

1) Brush your teeth twice daily. Brushing after every meal is also helpful to minimize plaque accumulation.

2) In certain areas of the teeth, you may be advised to use an interdental brush or end-tufted brush.

3) Floss every day.

4) Visit the dentist routinely twice a year for a check-up and professional cleaning.

5) Don't use tobacco products. If you smoke, your dentist may advise you to quit smoking.

Remember your gums and underlying bone supports all your teeth in place and a beautiful smile starts with healthy gums!

 

 

 

 

 

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