Periodontal Disease Guide: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments and more

Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis, is a prevalent chronic oral condition that affects gum health and can lead to tooth loss if untreated. Learn about its causes, symptoms, and effective treatment options to maintain healthy gums and a confident smile.

What is Periodontal Disease? How Do Gingivitis and Periodontitis Differ?

Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, can be classified into two main stages: gingivitis and periodontitis.

Gingivitis: The early stage of Periodontal disease. Common symptoms include red, swollen gums and bleeding during brushing. With timely and proper treatment, the gums can typically return to a healthy condition.
Periodontitis: The advanced stage, which may lead to gum recession, loose teeth, and even tooth loss.

According to the World Health Organization, about 50% of adults worldwide are affected by gum disease to varying degrees, with the prevalence increasing significantly with age.

What Causes Periodontal Disease?

The primary cause of Periodontal disease is the buildup of dental plaque—a sticky film composed of food particles, bacteria, and saliva. If not removed promptly, plaque can harden into tartar, which triggers gum inflammation and leads to gum disease.

Other risk factors include:

Genetic Factors: Individuals with a family history of gum disease may be at a higher risk.
Smoking: Smokers are more prone to gum inflammation and reduced gum tissue repair capacity.
Chronic Conditions: Patients with conditions like diabetes are more susceptible to plaque-related damage due to a weakened immune response.
Poor Oral Hygiene: Improper brushing techniques, or neglecting flossing or interdental brushes, can lead to plaque accumulation.

Do I Have Periodontal Disease? What Are the Symptoms?

If you experience one or more of the following symptoms, it’s advisable to consult a dentist promptly:

Bleeding Gums

Bleeding during brushing or biting hard foods may indicate gum inflammation.

Red, Swollen, and Painful Gums

Gums turning from pink to dark red, accompanied by swelling and tenderness, may result from plaque-induced inflammation.

Persistent Bad Breath

Chronic bad breath could be caused by bacteria within plaque.

Loose Teeth or Widening Gaps

Damage to gum tissues may compromise the structure supporting your teeth.

Gum Recession

Receding gums expose the tooth root, increasing sensitivity and the risk of decay.

How Does Periodontal Disease Affect Me?

The effects of periodontal disease go beyond oral health, posing potential risks to overall well-being.

Impact on Physical Health

Cardiovascular Disease: Research suggests that periodontal disease may be associated with coronary artery disease and stroke. Chronic inflammation might contribute to plaque buildup in arteries.
Diabetes: Periodontal disease can make blood sugar levels harder to control, creating a vicious cycle where diabetes increases susceptibility to periodontal disease.
Respiratory Diseases: Bacteria from periodontal disease may travel through the oral cavity to the respiratory tract, heightening the risk of pneumonia or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Psychological and Social Impact

Reduced Confidence: Loose teeth, bad breath, and gum recession can cause embarrassment during social interactions.
Mental Stress: Neglecting periodontal disease may lead to visible changes in appearance, affecting mood and mental health.

Health Department Insights: How Periodontal Disease Impacts Overall Health ->

Can I Cure Periodontal Disease Myself? What Are the Treatment Options?

Periodontal disease is a chronic condition that requires professional treatment and cannot be completely cured with home remedies alone. Popular methods like oil pulling or using at-home scaling tools are neither effective nor medically recommended and may even worsen gum damage or infections.

Treatment options are broadly classified into non-surgical and surgical approaches. Regular follow-ups and proper oral care at home are essential for long-term results.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Non-surgical therapies are often the first choice for mild to moderate periodontal disease.

Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)

Performed by professional dentists, deep cleaning removes plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces and periodontal pockets, reducing bacterial growth.

Medication Support

Antibiotics: Used to control bacterial infections in periodontal pockets and reduce inflammation.
Antibacterial Mouthwash: Products like Corsodyl help control bacterial levels and promote gum healing.

Surgical Treatments

For advanced cases of periodontal disease, surgical intervention may be necessary when non-surgical methods are insufficient.

Gum Surgery

Dentists remove damaged gum tissue and clean deep periodontal pockets to restore healthy gum structure.

Bone Grafting

In cases of severe bone loss, bone grafts are used to rebuild the supporting structures of teeth, restoring their stability.

Post-Surgical Care

Follow your dentist’s care instructions diligently.
Maintain a soft diet and practice gentle oral hygiene to avoid irritating gums.
Schedule regular follow-ups to monitor healing progress and ensure treatment success.

Cost of Periodontal Disease Treatment

General dentists typically handle mild cases of periodontal disease, with fees generally lower than those of periodontal specialists. Specialists, however, offer tailored treatment plans for varying severity levels, which can significantly impact the overall cost.
The cost of periodontal disease treatment depends on factors such as the complexity of the treatment, the type of procedure, and the dentist’s expertise.

Fees at General Dental Clinics

General dentists are well-equipped to treat mild periodontal disease, offering basic treatments like deep cleaning and medication at more affordable rates.

Fees at Periodontal Specialist Clinics

For moderate to severe cases, specialists design personalised treatment plans that provide more in-depth and advanced care, which generally costs more than treatments from general dentists.

How to Prevent Periodontal Disease?

Although periodontal disease is common, it is entirely preventable with good oral care habits. Here are some key measures:

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
Use dental floss or interdental brushes to remove debris between teeth.
Regularly use antibacterial mouthwash to inhibit bacterial growth effectively.

Schedule Regular Dental Checkups

Visit your dentist every six months for routine checkups and professional cleaning to detect and address periodontal issues early.

Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle

Balanced Diet: Reduce consumption of sugary foods to minimise plaque buildup.
Quit Smoking: Smoking damages gum health and increases the risk of periodontal disease.
Manage Chronic Conditions: Patients with conditions like diabetes should manage their health proactively to prevent immune system-related periodontal issues.

Conclusion

While periodontal disease is a common oral health issue, it is preventable. By maintaining good oral hygiene habits and scheduling regular dental checkups, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing periodontal disease. Early treatment and proper care are essential for ensuring optimal oral health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is periodontal disease contagious?

Periodontal disease itself is not a contagious condition and cannot be transmitted through direct contact or airborne means. However, bacteria may be shared among family members or partners through activities like sharing utensils or close contact, which can increase the risk of developing periodontal disease. Maintaining good oral hygiene and healthy habits is essential for prevention.

Can receding gums caused by periodontal disease return to their original state?

Gum recession caused by periodontal disease is generally difficult to restore to its original state. Treatment focuses on improving periodontal health and slowing the progression of recession. In severe cases, soft tissue grafting surgery can be performed to enhance the appearance and functionality of the gums.

Can bone loss from periodontal disease be restored after treatment?

It is possible for bone to regenerate after periodontal treatment, especially with the use of bone grafting materials to encourage bone growth. However, the extent of restoration varies depending on the severity of the disease and the individual’s response to treatment. In advanced cases with significant bone loss, recovery may be more challenging and require a comprehensive treatment approach.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional dental advice. If you require dental treatment or related information, we recommend consulting a professional dentist registered with the Dental Council of Hong Kong to obtain advice and diagnosis tailored to your individual needs.

While we strive to provide accurate and reliable information, we do not guarantee the completeness or timeliness of the content. The information provided should not be considered a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns, please consult your dentist or other qualified healthcare professional and follow their recommendations.

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