Periodontal disease is defined as an infection caused in the periodontium. The periodontium is the tissue that surrounds and supports the teeth. It is composed of several components such as the gingiva, the cementum, the periodontal ligaments as well as the alveolar bone. When infection in these regions causes inflammation, it is known as periodontitis that is also called Pyorrhea alveolaris. According to research, 50% of American citizens who are over 30 have some form of the disease and almost 10% of the cases deal with severe forms of periodontal disease.
Between the teeth and the gums, there is a deep crevice that acts as a connective tissue between the two. This is called the sulcus and this is where periodontal disease usually occurs. This tissue is often infected, which leads to break down and severe bone loss in and around the root region, if the condition is not treated early on. Microbial plaque and biofilms are the root cause of periodontium. Plaque is colonies of toxin producing bacteria that collect on the surface of the teeth every day. It is because of this acid production that the gum tissue separates from the tooth. This leads to periodontal disease and bone loss along the gum line.
With time, plaque and tartar buildup progress to form pockets. The vacant space formed becomes home to colonies of harmful bacteria. These vacant spaces that get infected separate the teeth from the gums. Periodontitis can affect the teeth in mild forms but sometimes it can also cause severe damage.
In the preliminary stages, it is called gingivitis, which may redden the gums and cause bleeding. However, the effects of gingivitis are reversible if treated with proper care. This includes regular brushing, dental flossing and decreasing the rate of dental plaque and tartar build up. Although gingivitis does not cause bone loss, it may advance into severe plaque build and eventually periodontal disease.
Under bacterial attack, the body uses its own repair system to try and neutralize the effect of the bacterial toxins produced. Unfortunately, this results in further breaking down of bones and tissue. The infection may spread into previously created pockets, which causes even more harm to an already unhealthy tooth or region. In periodontal disease, connective tissue deteriorates gradually the patient may end up losing teeth, if treatment is not done.
Plaque or tartar build up is considered to be the primary causes of periodontal disease. However, other factors also make individuals susceptible to periodontal disease:
- Usage of tobacco is one of the root factors that make individuals highly vulnerable to advanced forms of periodontal disease.
- Some individuals may be genetically inclined to periodontal disease. According to research, even if proper oral care is practiced, there is a significant section of individuals who are more in danger of developing the disease than others.
- Stress related problems or certain medications are often considered to trigger periodontal disease.
- Hormonal changes in teenagers and pregnant women may also lead to periodontitis.
Please consult a dentist for additional information about periodontal disease and how it is treated. Click here to find a dentist in your area. Enter your ZIP code below to find a money-saving discount dental plan available near you.
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