Parodontitis | Gum and Bone Inflammation
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- Parodontitis | Gum and Bone Inflammation
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What is periodontitis?
Symptoms of periodontitis
Periodontitis can develop slowly and remain unnoticed for a long time. Possible signs include:
- Red, swollen, or soft gums
- Bleeding during brushing or eating
- Receding gums (teeth appear longer)
- Bad breath or unpleasant taste
- Sensitivity to temperature or pressure
- Shifting teeth or new gaps
- Loose teeth
Note: These symptoms may not always be present. Regular check-ups are essential.
How is periodontitis diagnosed?
A dental hygienist uses a probe to measure the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums. They also check for bleeding, tooth mobility, and gum condition. X-rays reveal whether and how much bone loss has occurred around the roots.
Causes and risk factors
Periodontitis is influenced by multiple factors:
- Bacteria in dental plaque: The composition and aggressiveness of bacteria vary from person to person. Your immune system also plays a role.
- Bacteriën in tandplak: De samenstelling en agressiviteit van bacteriën verschilt per persoon. Ook je afweer speelt een rol.
- Smoking: Harmful substances like nicotine reduce blood flow and gum defenses. Smokers are more likely to experience bone loss and poorer healing.
- Systemic diseases and stress: Conditions like diabetes (especially poorly controlled), cardiovascular disease, and psychological stress can worsen periodontitis. While the exact link is still being studied, overall health impacts oral health.
When to seek advice
Contact your dentist or dental hygienist if you notice:
- Bleeding gums during brushing, flossing, or eating
- Sensitive or painful gums
- Receding gums
- Teeth shifting position
- Loose teeth
- Bad breath or unpleasant taste
Advanced periodontitis
In later stages, teeth may loosen or develop visible gaps. Receding gums expose the roots, causing sensitivity during brushing or when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods. Aesthetically, receded gums can affect your smile. Without treatment, bone loss may become so severe that teeth lose their support and fall out.
- FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Orthodontics is a dental specialty that focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial abnormalities, such as crooked teeth and jaws.
Dental sealants are thin, protective layers applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth to prevent cavities.
Yes, teeth whitening treatments performed by a dentist or with dentist-approved products are safe and effective.
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of teeth, gums, and smile through treatments such as whitening, veneers, and bonding.
Home whitening options include whitening strips, gels, toothpaste, and custom-made trays prescribed by your dentist.