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Gingivitis and periodontitis

Swollen and bleeding gums? Wiggling teeth? Bad breath? Do you know about periodontal therapy?

What is periodontology

Periodontology is the branch of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of the supporting tissues of the tooth, that is, the periodontium.

The periodontium consists of:

  • Gingiva

  • Tooth root

  • Periodontal ligament

  • Alveolar bone

Periodontology:

Treats diseases affecting the supporting organ of the tooth

What is pyorrhea or periodontitis?

Infection of the gums caused by bacteria

Symptoms:

Reddened, bleeding, swollen, sore, receding gums

Causes:

Improper hygiene, smoking, stress, predisposition, certain medications, diet, pregnancy

Types of treatment:

Periodic specialist visits, non-surgical periodontal therapy, in advanced stages surgery is used

Gingivitis and periodontitis

Gingivitis is the first phase of periodontal disease characterised by reddened and bleeding gums.

Periodontitis is the most advanced stage and is a chronic degenerative disease that causes the destruction of the supporting apparatus of the teeth, consisting of the alveolar bone, periodontal ligament, root and gingiva.

It is therefore not easy to realise that one is suffering from periodontitis until it is too late. As soon as you notice one or more of these symptoms, it is a good idea to make an appointment with your dentist:

  • Reddening

  • Bleeding, swollen and sore gums

  • Persistent bad breath

  • Tooth sensitivity during chewing

  • Teeth appearing longer than before

  • Development of space between teeth

  • Appearance of pus between teeth and gums

Causes

Periodontitis is caused by bacteria, which remain on the teeth if daily oral hygiene is not thorough.

The formation of plaque, and its subsequent transformation into tartar, increases the proliferation of bacteria that slowly destroy tissue.

The concomitant causes of increased bacterial activity are:

  • smoking;

  • pregnancy;

  • stress;

  • diseases (example: diabetes);

  • certain medications taken continuously;

  • individual predisposition;

  • nutrition.

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What can be done