Periodontics
Periodontitis, also known as periodontal disease, is a serious infection that affects the supporting tissues of the teeth, including the gums, alveolar bone and alveolar-dental ligament. At Clinique dentaire Julien & Marin, we offer effective solutions to diagnose and treat periodontitis to preserve your oral health.
Causes and Symptoms of Periodontitis
Periodontitis is often the result of untreated gum disease (gingivitis). The main causes include:
- Poor Oral Hygiene: the accumulation of plaque and tartar, bacterial deposits harmful to teeth, represents the main cause of periodontitis. If they are not effectively removed by regular brushing and flossing, as well as by in-clinic cleaning and scaling, their presence promotes inflammation of the gums. If left untreated, this inflammation can eventually spread to the periodontium.
- Risk Factors: certain factors increase the risk of periodontitis, including smoking, diabetes, a family history of periodontal disease, and certain medical conditions such as autoimmune diseases
Early signs of gingivitis include red, slightly swollen gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing. As inflammation progresses, periodontitis sets in. Symptoms can include:
- Chronic bad breath
- Gum pain and tenderness
- Gingival recession
- Tooth mobility
- Pus between teeth and gums
Diagnosis and Treatment of Periodontitis
For an accurate diagnosis, it's essential to consult a dentist who will carry out a full assessment of your oral condition. Typical steps in diagnosis and treatment are as follows:
- Clinical Examination: The dentist examines the gums and teeth for signs of periodontitis. Periodontal probes measure the depth of periodontal pockets, which form between the gums and tooth roots.
- Dental X-rays: X-rays are used to assess the extent of tissue destruction and plan appropriate treatment.
- Deep Cleaning: Initial treatment includes scaling and root planing to remove tartar and bacteria below the gum line. This helps reduce inflammation and allows the gums to heal.
- Monitoring and Follow-up: After cleaning, it's crucial to follow oral hygiene recommendations. Your dentist may recommend follow-up visits to monitor the condition of your gums and ensure complete healing.
- Further Treatment: In advanced cases, surgery or bone grafting may be necessary to restore damaged tissue and stabilize the dentition.
Prevention and Oral Hygiene Advice
Prevention of periodontitis relies on good oral hygiene:
- Regular Brushing: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
- Flossing: floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth.
- Regular Dental Check-ups: schedule regular dental check-ups to detect early problems and benefit from professional cleanings, including scaling.
Periodontitis is a serious disease requiring prompt attention to avoid serious complications, such as tooth loss. At Clinique dentaire Julien & Marin, we're committed to providing you with personalized care to treat periodontitis. Don't wait for symptoms to worsen; book an appointment with us for a complete evaluation and treatment tailored to your needs. Your smile and your health are our priority.