Periodontitis: A Form of Gum Disease | Eagle Rock Dental Care

If you have periodontitis, you might have a few questions. Periodontitis is a form of gum disease, or periodontal disease, which affects the gum tissue. Here is a look at the causes, symptoms, and treatment options in Idaho Falls.

Common Causes of Periodontitis

Gingivitis, which is the first and most mild stage of gum disease, can develop as a result of poor oral hygiene, medication side effects, genetic predisposition, certain medical conditions, certain lifestyle choices, and infrequent visits to the dentist. The primary causes of gingivitis are a lack of natural saliva production, and a buildup of bacteria in the mouth. Saliva contains ingredients that preserve the health of your teeth, gums, and mouth. Saliva is also quite good at washing harmful bacteria out of your mouth. Certain medications and medical conditions can reduce saliva production, as can smoking. As bacteria build up in the mouth, plaque and tartar develop. Without proper oral hygiene, this plaque and tartar buildup can cause gingivitis and, if left untreated, periodontitis.

Symptoms

The initial symptoms of gingivitis include gums that are swollen, tender, inflamed, and red or purplish in color. Bleeding gums, that is especially noticeable when brushing your teeth, is the most common symptom. Without treatment by a dentist or periodontist, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. The primary symptoms are gum recession, the development of new gaps between teeth, bad breath, a bad taste in the mouth, loose teeth, and a change in the way that your teeth fit together when you bite down. Without treatment, it can progress to advanced periodontitis, which can cause tooth loss.

Treatment Options

Your treatment options will depend upon how advanced it is. Treatment may be surgical or non-surgical. Non-surgical treatments include dental scaling, root planing, and antibiotics. Surgical treatments may include laser gum treatment, laser gum therapy, and pinhole surgery to repair gum recession. You may require more intensive treatments at a later time if periodontitis is left untreated.

If you have, or are worried that you have periodontitis, please visit or give Eagle Rock Dental Care a call. We would love to answer any questions you may have.