PERIODONTITIS is a term used to describe a group of conditions that involves inflammation of the gums and other structures that support the teeth. Periodontitis is caused by bacteria found in dental plaque and often, but not always, starts as gingivitis.

In trying to eliminate the bacterial infection, your body produces substances that destroy the structures that hold the teeth in the jaw, including the periodontal ligament and underlying bone. As this process continues, the teeth become loose. Pockets form between the teeth and gums, allowing more bacteria to accumulate. Left untreated, periodontitis can result in tooth loss.

Periodontitis, usually, is relatively painless. The onset of significant pain may signal the development of an abscess.

Older adults are more likely to have periodontitis. People who smoke are four to seven times more likely than non-smokers to get periodontitis. Smoking may impair the body’s defence against bacteria.

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms of periodontitis include:

• Reddened, swollen or bleeding gums;

• Receding gums;

• Loose teeth;

• An unpleasant taste in the mouth.

However, many people are unaware of these symptoms or do not believe they are signs of a serious problem.

Unlike gingivitis, periodontitis cannot be completely reversed. In some situations, the supporting fibres and bone that have been lost can be regenerated. In most cases, however, particularly in advanced stages of the disease, the effects are permanent. However, treatment and improved oral hygiene at any stage can improve the health of your gums and prevent further destruction.

PREVENTION

Daily brushing and flossing (morning and night) and regular visits for professional cleaning can help prevent periodontitis or allow you to have it treated during its earliest stages. If you smoke, quitting will reduce your risk significantly.

Treatment depends on the severity of your periodontitis. Dentists classify the disease as mild, moderate or severe.

Mild periodontitis is usually treated first with a thorough cleaning, called scaling and root planing. Scaling removes plaque or calculus that has accumulated on the crowns of your teeth (the parts that show) and slightly below the gum line. Root planing has two purposes:

1) to remove plaque or calculus from the roots of your teeth and

2) to smooth the roots of the teeth, making it more difficult for bacteria to cling to them.

This, combined with good oral hygiene at home, often is enough for successful treatment.

Moderate periodontitis may require more than scaling and root planing. Typically, your dentist will scale and root plane your teeth. If this does not take care of the problem, he or she may decide that you need surgical treatment. Surgery can involve reshaping the gums to fit the teeth (resective surgeries) or encouraging lost bone to regrow (regenerative surgeries). Your dentist will decide whether you will need surgery and what type.

Severe periodontitis will likely require surgical intervention and, in some instances, antibiotics. At this stage of disease, tooth loss is a distinct possibility.

No matter which treatment you undergo, you should start a strict regimen of brushing and flossing to help restore your teeth to health.

The best course of action is to get regular dental check-ups. If you have persistent bleeding or swelling of your gums or notice loose teeth, call your dentist.

For the month of June, Dental Place Cosmetix Spa will be offering free dental exams with your cleanings, saving you $2,500.00.

Dr Sharon Robinson DDS has offices at the Dental Place Cosmetix Spa located at Shop #5, Winchester Business Centre, 15 Hope Road, Kingston 10. Dr Robinson is an adjunct lecturer at the University of Technology, Jamaica, School of Oral Health Sciences. She may be contacted at 630-4710. Like their Facebook page, Dental Place Cosmetix Spa, for an opportunity to take advantage of weekly specials.