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Peridontal Disease and Treatment

Sometimes called gum disease or periodontitis, periodontal disease is an infection of your gums, the tissue that support and protect your teeth. Approximately 80 percent of Americans have some form of gum disease, reports the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.

  1. Cause

    • Periodontal disease is caused by a buildup of bacteria-laden plaque and tartar on your teeth, which causes your gums to become inflamed in response. Normally, this build-up occurs as a result of poor oral hygiene, explains the Mayo Clinic.

    Symptoms

    • Symptoms of periodontal disease include swollen or bright red gums, receding gums that make your teeth look larger, new spaces developing between your teeth, the appearance of pus between your teeth, bad breath, and loose teeth.

    Risk Factors

    • Periodontal disease is most common when you reach your 30s and 40s, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Smoking, diabetes, stress, having a disease like cancer or AIDS, and taking medications like antidepressants increase your likelihood of developing periodontal disease.

    Treatment

    • Scaling and root planing to remove tartar from your teeth and oral or topical antibiotics are possible treatments for periodontal disease. In some cases, doctors perform surgery to reattach the gums or to replace lost bone or gum tissue.

    Self-Care

    • If you have periodontal disease, it is important that you brush twice per day or after every meal, floss regularly, and use a mouth rinse to help eliminate plaque, explains the Mayo Clinic. You should also visit your dentist regularly for cleanings to remove tartar.

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