Periodontitis is a disease of the mouth that causes inflammation and destruction of the supporting tissues of the teeth. Teeth lose the tissues that support them, like the gums and bones of the jaws. Tooth pain or increased sensitivity to the gums accompany the loosening of the teeth, which they no longer have their support tissues. Periodontitis occurs in three stages, mild, moderate, and advanced.
The first stage of the development of periodontitis is called gingivitis. Gingivitis is defined as inflammation of the gums. They are red, sensitive, and often swollen. Gingivitis is easily detectable: inflamed gums bleed when brushing teeth or flossing. Does that remind you of something?
The other two stages of periodontitis include inflammation of the bone and irreversible destruction of the gingival and bone tissues, respectively.
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How Can I Prevent & Reduce The Effects of Periodontitis?
As we have seen, gingivitis and periodontitis are, among other things, caused by the constant accumulation of bacteria on the teeth and gums.
You will have guessed that gingivitis can be prevented or eliminated and that periodontitis can be alleviated by rigorous, complete, and constant dental hygiene. Complements to brushing and flossing can also be of great help, as we will see below.
In addition to this daily home care, annual visits to the dental hygienist and dentist are recommended, regardless of the stage of periodontitis.
It should be noted that this information is provided for your information only. It is advisable to consult a dental professional, such as a dentist, to have an assessment of the condition of your mouth and treatments.
Are There Natural Products I Can Use To Reduce Gum Disease?
Yes! Some natural products can be used when you perceive an onset of gingivitis, or later in the process. And, good news, the first stage of periodontitis can be treated and leave no after-effects in the mouth.
Some natural products you can use include:
- Mouthwashes with folic acid. Also called folate, folic acid is one of the B vitamins (B9). Mouthwashes are suggested for about 4 weeks for results.
- Pure aloe vera gel to drink. For about 3 months, by keeping it in the mouth a few minutes before drinking, aloe vera facilitates healing and reduces inflammation of the gums.
- Drops of essential oil from the tea tree. This powerful antibacterial kill a lot of bacteria in the mouth and ensures a reduction of inflammation of the gums. Add a drop on the toothbrush with the toothpaste.
What Can Dentists Do To Treat Gum Disease?
In cases of periodontitis, your dentist may perform cleaning and rinsing treatment.
First, the cleaning of the teeth is done in depth. The dentist (or dental hygienist) makes sure to remove all dental plaque, that is to say, the layer of bacteria lodged on the teeth and between the teeth. Also, he sees to remove the tartar which has accumulated and which irritates the sick gums. Over time, plaque that remains in the mouth becomes hard tartar. And only professional cleaning with suitable instruments can remove tartar.
Depending on the stage of periodontitis, dentists can supplement with rinses of the mouth using a solution of chlorhexidine, an effective antiseptic.
Finally, during an advanced stage, a specialized dentist may resort to periodontal surgery. He then intervenes to repair the supporting tissues of the teeth. It can repair the gums or, in severe situations, perform a bone graft or put a filling material. It has the effect of stimulating the regeneration of the bone that has been attacked.
What If I Have Advanced Periodontitis?
In its advanced stage or sometimes even moderate, periodontics may have destroyed a good part of the supporting tissues of the teeth, permanently weakening them. Despite this situation, it is possible to find a strong and aesthetic dentition, for some teeth or many.
Looking for a Periodontist in Fort Mill?
Our periodontist Dr. Samir Patel is exeperienced in providing gum disease procedures in Fort Mill, SC! If you have any additional questions about laser dentistry, periodontics, or would like to schedule with Dr. Patel, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly staff today! We look forward to serving you.
