What are the 4 signs of periodontal disease? How is periodontitis formed
What are the Four Signs of Periodontal Disease?
1.Bleeding Gums - One of the earliest signs of periodontal disease is bleeding gums. If you notice blood when you brush or floss, it is a clear indication that something is not right. Healthy gums should not bleed when you brush or floss, so take note of this sign and seek professional care immediately.
2.Swollen or Red Gums - Another sign of periodontal disease is swollen or red gums. Infected gums become inflamed as the body tries to fight off the infection. Your gums might appear puffy and red or feel tender to the touch. Swollen and red gums are another warning sign of periodontal disease, and you should consult a dental professional at the earliest possible opportunity.
3.Bad Breath or Taste in Mouth - Halitosis, or bad breath, can be caused by many factors, including periodontal disease. Bacteria accumulate in the mouth as a result of the infection, leading to unpleasant odors. A persistent bad taste in your mouth is also a warning sign of periodontal disease.
4.Tooth Loss or Shifting - The most severe outcome of periodontal disease is tooth loss. As the infection progresses, it can destroy the tissue and bone that support your teeth, causing them to become loose or even fall out. Tooth loss or shifting should be taken seriously and addressed as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
How is Periodontitis Formed?
Periodontal disease is caused by a bacterial infection that affects the tissues surrounding and supporting your teeth. The primary culprit of periodontitis is dental plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the surfaces of teeth. When plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar or calculus, which cannot be removed by brushing alone.
The bacteria in plaque and tartar cause an inflammatory response from your immune system. White blood cells are sent to the site of the infection to fight off the bacteria, leading to inflammation and damage to the gums, bone, and tissue that support your teeth. This can cause periodontal pockets to form around the teeth, which are spaces between the teeth and gum line where bacteria can thrive.
As the infection progresses, the periodontal pockets get deeper, and the bacteria spread further into the surrounding tissue and bone. Eventually, the bone supporting the teeth is lost, causing them to become loose and potentially fall out.
Risk Factors for Periodontitis
Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing periodontitis, including:
Poor oral hygiene habits
Smoking or using tobacco products
Genetics
Age
Medical conditions such as diabetes or HIV
Hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or menopause
Certain medications such as steroids or chemotherapy drugs
Preventing Periodontitis
Preventing periodontitis is essential to maintain good oral health. You can reduce your risk of developing this condition by:
Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
Flossing daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth
Using an antimicrobial mouthwash to kill harmful bacteria
Eating a well-balanced diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals
Avoiding sugary and acidic foods that can erode your tooth enamel
Quitting smoking or using tobacco products
Limiting alcohol and caffeine consumption
Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water
Seeing your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings
