PERIODONTITIS

(Gum Inflammation)

 Basic information

description

Periodontitis is an inflammation and infection of the gums, causing loss of bone around the teeth. It is responsible for more tooth loss than tooth decay. It can occur at any age, but is most common in adults.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• There may be no symptoms.
• Gums may be swollen, red or purple, or tender.
• Gums may pull away from teeth.
• Unpleasant taste in the mouth and bad breath.
• Bleeding of the gums.
• Loosening of teeth in the sockets.
• Aching teeth and gums when eating hot, cold, or sweet food.

causes

Plaque (a sticky deposit of food, bacteria, and mucus) builds up on the teeth. It turns hard and becomes tartar (calculus). Bacteria in the plaque and tartar can cause a gum inflammation called gingivitis. If untreated, gingivitis spreads to the bones that support the teeth causing periodontitis. Pockets of infection occur around the roots of the teeth.

risk increases with

• Poor dental hygiene.
• Weak immune system due to illness or drugs.
• Smoking.
• Certain drugs.
• Changes in hormones, such as with pregnancy.
• Diabetes and other diseases.
• Poor nutrition (not eating a healthy diet).
• Family history of gum disease.
• Clenching or grinding teeth.
• Older age.
• Substance abuse.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

• Maintain good oral hygiene
  • Brush teeth twice a day or after each meal. Use a soft bristle toothbrush or a power toothbrush. A fluoride toothpaste is often recommended.
  • Floss teeth at least once a day with waxed or unwaxed dental floss or use an interdental cleaner. An oral irrigator may be used in addition to flossing.
  • A tongue scraper can be used to clean the tongue.
  • Use an antiseptic mouthwash if desired.
  • Dental check-ups and cleaning every six months; more often if you are prone to plaque or gingivitis.
• Control chronic medical problems (e.g., diabetes).
• Do not smoke.
• Eat a healthy diet. Avoid snacks and junk foods packed with sugar.

expected outcomes

Usually curable with a combination of dental treatment and maintaining a good oral hygiene program.

possible complications

• Without treatment, teeth loosen so much that they may fall out or need to be removed.
• Recurrence of periodontitis.
• Tooth abscess (pus-filled area).
• Mouth infections.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Your dental care provider will do an exam of the teeth, gums, and supporting bones. X-rays may be done to check for any bone loss.
• Treatment may involve correcting dental problems, scaling, planing, and surgery. Your dental care provider will discuss a treatment plan with you.
• Dental work may be done for rough or jagged teeth.
• Dental appliances may need to be repaired.
• Scaling and root planing involves cleaning of deep pockets and smoothing the roots of the teeth.
• Gum surgery may be needed. Pockets of infection may need to be cut open and cleaned. Loose teeth may need to be removed. Bone and tissue grafts may be needed to help support the teeth.
• Dental implants may be recommended for lost teeth.
• To learn more: American Dental Association, 211 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60611-2678; (800) 947-4746; website: www.ada.org.

medications

• For minor pain, you may use nonprescription drugs such as acetaminophen.
• Antibiotics may be prescribed for infection.

activity

No limits.

diet

Eat a healthy diet. Avoid excess sugary foods.

 CALL YOUR DENTIST IF

You or a family member has symptoms of periodontitis.

Special Notes: