What Is Periodontal Therapy?

You probably understand the dangers of cavities pretty well, but are you acquainted with periodontal disease? According to the CDC, half of Americans 30 years or older have periodontitis, which is a disease of the gums. This condition can greatly affect your teeth and your overall oral health. Periodontal therapy can help with this condition. Keep reading below to learn more.

Is Periodontal Disease Actually a Problem?

Yes, gingivitis, which is the early stage of periodontal disease, is a big deal. This is the stage in which the disease can be treated fairly easily, however, because the symptoms at this stage are usually mild, this is when people ignore it. In most cases, people allow the problem to grow and worsen before they seek treatment. You can prevent periodontal disease by simply following good dental hygiene practices such as thorough brushes, consistent flossing, and regular dental checkups.

If you consistently ignore the early signs of periodontal disease, it could eventually lead to gum tissue loss and tooth loss. At that stage, the disease is difficult to treat without surgery.

What Causes Periodontal Disease?

This problem can be caused by a couple of different behaviors. The most prominent reason is bad dental hygiene. Other causes include smoking, chewing tobacco, and poor diet. Hormonal fluctuations and genetics can also play a part in the development of this disease. If you have multiple risk factors, you may need periodontal therapy.

What Are the Symptoms?

One of the reasons people often ignore periodontal disease is because there is often little pain associated with it. There are signs, though, that you can be on the lookout for. Bad breath is often a sign of periodontal disease, as well as bleeding gums when you brush your teeth. Red, swollen gums are another sign. Once the disease has advanced, you might notice receding gums, loose teeth, and pockets forming between teeth.