Periodontitis
by
Michael Jubinville, MPH DefinitionPeriodontitis is an advanced form of gum disease. It can cause destruction of the supportive structures around your teeth and lead to permanent tooth loss. Untreated periodontitis can be serious and lead to complications such as:
CausesBacteria grow on your teeth and create a filmy coating called plaque. A build up of this plaque causes an inflammation of the gum tissue, known as gingivitis. If gingivitis is left untreated, the plaque can extend under the gum line can create pockets around the teeth. Bacteria can collect in these pockets and cause regular inflammation and destruction known as periodontitis. Over time, this chronic inflammation and bacteria cause destruction of gum tissue, ligaments, and bones that hold your teeth in place.
Risk FactorsPoor oral hygiene including untreated gingivitis increases the risk of periodontitis. It is also more common in older adults. Other factors that can increase bacteria or plaque in your mouth include:
SymptomsPeriodontitis normally occurs without symptoms. In those that have symptoms, periodontitis may cause:
DiagnosisYou will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A complete oral exam will be done. Periodontal disease can be diagnosed during an oral exam. Your dentist may do x-rays to determine how much damage has been done. TreatmentThe goal of treatment is to stop the bacterial invasion. Further course of treatment depends on the severity and progression of the periodontitis. Talk to your dentist about the best treatment plan for you. Options include: Deep CleaningA cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing is done first. These will remove excess build-up above and below the gum line, and along the tooth root where bacteria thrive. In some cases, lasers can be used to remove plaque. MedicationsYour dentist may recommend antibiotics to treat any bacterial infection. Antibiotics may be given as:
SurgeryYou may need surgery if your periodontitis doesn’t improve with deep cleaning or antibiotic treatment. Surgery may be also necessary to repair damaged gum tissues and bones. Surgical procedures include:
PreventionTo help reduce your chance of periodontitis:
RESOURCES:Mouth Healthy—American Dental Association http://www.mouthhealthy.org Perio—American Academy of Periodontology http://www.perio.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Dental Association http://www.cda-adc.ca Public Health Agency of Canada http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca References:Periodontal (gum) disease: Cause, symptoms, and treatment. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated September 2017. Accessed December 13, 2017. Treatments. American Academy of Periodontology website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed December 13, 2017. What is gum disease? Know Your Teeth—Academy of General Dentistry website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated January 2012. Accessed December 13, 2017.
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. Yaacob M, Worthington HV, et al. Powered versus manual toothbrushing for oral health. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2014;6:CD002281
Last reviewed November 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Michael Woods, MD, FAAP Last Updated: 12/20/2014 |
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