Periodontal disease: how do I know if I have it?

Periodontal disease is characterized by the formation of a space between the gum and the tooth, a periodontal pocket, which helps to accumulate food debris and bacteria. It is the main cause of tooth loss in adults. As in all cases, only a dentist can determine with certainty the patient’s condition and what treatment should be carried out.

Periodontal disease self-examination

But people can find out more quickly at home what their problem is. In the case of periodontal disease, the most characteristic sign is bleeding gums. In addition, changes in the position of the teeth, swollen gums, tooth mobility, receding gums, bad breath and food retention are signs that the disease may already be present.

Periodontal disease is caused by bacterial plaque adhering to the tooth. Bacterial activity in this area releases toxins that initially cause the gums to loosen, making room for infection inside. This infection leads to the progressive deterioration of the supporting tissues of the teeth and in advanced cases, they become soft and fall out.

However, changes in the gums can also be associated with emotional causes, medication or low immunity. That’s why it’s important to have a consultation to assess the causes.

Treatments for inflamed gums

For treatment, the patient must go to the dentist who will remove the plaque by scraping and smoothing the roots of the teeth. Surgery may be indicated if the aforementioned procedures do not reach the entire area of the compromised root. Even with proper treatment, there may be sequelae such as displacement in the position of the tooth, bone loss and gum recession. Surgical and prosthetic procedures are available to reduce these effects.

If you’re noticing any of these symptoms of periodontal disease, make sure you schedule an appointment to start proper treatment as soon as possible, and thus avoid more serious problems such as tooth loss.

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