Important Causes and Signs of Periodontal Disease

Important Causes and Signs of Periodontal Disease

Apr 01, 2023

Periodontal disease is a condition in which bacteria infiltrate the gums and bone, eventually causing instability of the teeth. The disease progresses in stages, starting with gingivitis, and it can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Symptoms vary among individuals, but common signs include bleeding, swollen red gums, and loose or painful teeth. When you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to get periodontal treatment in Markham, ON.

What are the Causes of Periodontal Disease?

There are several causes of gum disease, and they include:

  • Poor oral hygiene.

If you don’t brush your teeth regularly, they become covered in plaque and bacteria. The bacteria can cause inflammation, leading to gingivitis and tooth or bone loss.

  • Smoking

Smoking causes inflammation by irritating the lining of your mouth, throat, and lungs. When you have gum disease, you increase the bacteria in your mouth. These bacteria can cause an infection in your gums, which then causes inflammation and pain.

The nicotine in cigarettes also increases plaque formation and causes inflammation in the mouth. These two factors lead to increased dental problems like bad breath, bleeding gums, and tooth loss.

  • Diabetes and high blood pressure

Diabetes and high blood pressure are two of the most common causes of gum disease. When these conditions are not properly managed, they can lead to serious oral health problems. Diabetes and high blood pressure can cause gum inflammation, which destroys the connective tissue between teeth and gums, making it easier for bacteria to enter the bloodstream and cause infection. Additionally, diabetes and high blood pressure can impair the body’s ability to fight off infection, leading to further complications with gum disease.

Signs of periodontal disease

There are a few warning signs of gum disease, and they include the following:

  • Tooth loss

If you experience tooth loss, it’s important to know that this can be a sign of periodontal disease. Tooth decay and gum disease are the main causes of tooth loss in adults but are also common among children. Tooth decay develops plaque that builds up on your teeth when bacteria in your mouth break down sugars from food into acids that destroy enamel (the outermost coating of your teeth). Gum disease can cause also lead to increased sensitivity due to nerve damage.

  • Gum recession

Gum recession is the loss of tissue, which can be caused by periodontal disease, trauma, and genetics.

If your gums are receding, see your dentist immediately so they can treat you with treatments like scaling, root planing (scaling), and regular cleanings.

  • Bad breath

Bad breath, or halitosis, is an unpleasant odor emanating from the mouth that various factors can cause. One of the most common causes of bad breath is gum disease, an infection of the gums caused by bacteria. Gum disease can cause inflammation and bleeding in the gums, leading to a buildup of bacteria in the mouth that produces foul-smelling odors.

  • Gum bleeding

Gum bleeding is a common symptom of gum disease, affecting your gums and the supporting structures of your teeth. Gum disease is caused by mouth bacteria forming a sticky film, called plaque, on the teeth. This plaque can irritate and damage the gums, leading to inflammation and gum bleeding. If left untreated, gum disease can cause serious damage to your teeth and gums.

  • Tooth sensitivity, soreness, and pain

Inflammation and pain in the gums can lead to increased sensitivity due to destroying the ligaments that support your teeth. This exposes the root surface of your tooth, which is connected to its nerve, causing discomfort.

What are the Gum Disease Treatment Options?

It can be prevented by maintaining good dental hygiene. In addition, there are several periodontal disease treatment options available:

  • Dental scaling and root planing remove plaque and tartar from beneath and underneath the gum line.
  • Antibiotics kill the bacteria that cause gingivitis. Oral rinses can help treat minor gum irritation caused by food debris trapped between teeth when brushing can’t reach all areas adequately.
  • Tissue regeneration procedures. Gum tissue regeneration is a procedure that helps rebuild the gums and other mouth tissues. This procedure can treat gum disease, improve cosmetic appearance, and restore lost teeth. It involves various techniques, such as grafting, which uses donor tissue to replace lost gum tissue.

Schedule an Appointment

If you notice any gum disease symptoms, it is important to seek periodontal disease treatment to stop further complications. Visit New Delhi Dental for more information about periodontal disease and treatment options.

905-209-1888 Book Now
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