Can Periodontitis Be Reversed?

Periodontitis is a bacterially induced, localized disease of the gums. Although it is difficult to diagnose in its initial stages, it can destroy connective tissue and bone that connect the gums. BioMedicine.org reports that periodontitis is present in a mild form in 30 percent to 50 percent of the adult population and that 5 percent to 15 percent of adults suffer from a severe form of the disease. Fortunately, this condition can be treated and its effects reversed, according to the Journal of Periodontology.

Effects

• When a person has periodontitis, he experiences bleeding and tenderness of the gums, swelling, bad breath or bad taste in the mouth and pain. Most cases of periodontitis start with gingivitis, which is an inflammation of the gums surrounding the teeth, often because of a collection of plaque.

  According to the Journal of Periodontology, a person with periodontitis may also suffer from atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD), as evidence seems to suggest a link between the two.

Reversing The Effects

• Periodontitis can be reversed and treated in various ways. The Journal of Periodontology reports a study in which patients who were administered 1.2 mg doses of simvastatin to reverse the effects of periodontitis and increase periodontal regeneration experienced positive results.

  Atlanta Dentist reports a five-step method for reversing the effects of periodontitis.These steps involve controlling risk factors, administering nonsurgical treatments, surgery, re-evaluation and maintenance.

  Risk factors can be mitigated by inserting a bite plane to nullify the effects of trauma, extracting untreatable teeth, splinting weakened adjacent teeth, taking antibiotics and giving up smoking. Nonsurgical treatments include a deep cleaning to remove tartar and plaque.

  Patients are also given instructions for personalized hygiene plans. The dentist will generally reevaluate patients six to 12 weeks after the nonsurgical treatment to assess progress and suggest plans for improvement.

  Surgery is required in more advanced stages of periodontitis. Plaque and tartar can be removed surgically, and surgical procedures can correct gingival and bony deformities. Resective and regenerative treatments may also be offered for those who need surgery.

  After any treatment to reverse the effects of periodontitis, the dentist will suggest techniques to keep the condition at bay and a post-treatment schedule of maintenance treatments.

Natural Remedy

• Natural remedies can also be tried to reduce inflammation and make the gums healthier. Atlanta Dentist recommends gargling with good quality honey. Manuka honey from New Zealand is a good alternative.