The term “periodontic treatment” describes a variety of methods used to identify, treat, and prevent diseases affecting the gums and tissues that support the teeth. Gum disease, also referred to as periodontal disease, is a common oral health problem that is characterized by gum inflammation and infection. Periodontal disease can have major side effects, like as tooth loss and systemic health issues, if it is not treated properly.
Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that accumulates on teeth, is the main cause of periodontal disease. Inadequate removal of plaque by routine brushing and flossing can cause it to solidify into tartar, or calculus, which is more bacterially dense and aggravates gum tissue. This can eventually result in gingivitis, which is the initial stage of gum disease and is characterized by bleeding, swelling, and redness in the gums.
Gingivitis can develop into periodontitis, a more severe kind of gum disease marked by the formation of deep pockets between the gums and teeth, if treatment is not received. The gums recede and the bone supporting the teeth deteriorates as a result of the bacteria and plaque that are trapped in these spaces. Teeth may become loose and finally fall out as the situation develops.
Through a variety of procedures, periodontal treatment seeks to stop the advancement of gum disease and restore gum health. Scaling and root planing, a thorough cleaning procedure, is usually the initial step in treatment. In order to prevent additional buildup, the dentist or dental hygienist smooths down any uneven spots on the teeth and roots after removing plaque and tartar.
In instances of severe periodontitis where pockets have developed, it could be imperative to undergo surgical surgery in order to efficiently reach and cleanse the tooth roots. This could entail operations like bone grafting, which replaces missing bone tissue, or flap surgery, which raises the gums to reveal the roots.
Keeping up proper dental hygiene practices at home is crucial for treating periodontal disease in addition to receiving expert treatment. This entails using fluoride toothpaste while brushing teeth twice a day, flossing every day to get rid of plaque from between teeth and along the gum line, and using mouth rinses with antimicrobial agents to lessen bacteria.
Frequent dental exams are also essential for keeping an eye on gum health and spotting periodontal disease early on. Dentists are qualified to measure pocket depths, evaluate gum health, and suggest the best course of action to stop future harm.
To sum up, periodontal treatment is essential for maintaining gum health and stopping the advancement of gum disease. People can preserve a healthy smile for years to come by taking care of problems like inflammation and plaque accumulation and encouraging proper oral hygiene habits. See your dentist right away for an assessment and treatment if you suffer from gum disease symptoms, such as red or swollen gums, bleeding when you brush or floss, or chronic bad breath.