Periodontal Disease: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Periodontal disease is a chronic oral health condition that affects a significant portion of the US population. It is common among older individuals and is influenced by various factors such as poor oral hygiene, genetics, systemic diseases, and lifestyle habits. If left untreated, Periodontal disease can result in bone loss in teeth and have detrimental effects on overall health.

Our dentists at Genesis Family Dentistry help reduce oral discomfort and dental complications thanks to our periodontal disease treatment in Uptown Charlotte near Plaza Midwood. Read on to learn about what periodontal disease is, its symptoms, causes, and treatments. 

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a condition caused by bacterial growth that affects the supportive structures surrounding the teeth. It starts with the inflammation of the gums, gingivitis, which can progress to a more severe form of gum disease known as periodontitis. Periodontitis can cause severe health complications if not managed properly.

Regular dental checkups and proper oral hygiene practices like brushing and flossing twice a day can help prevent periodontal disease. If you suspect you have gum disease, we encourage you to visit our dental office in Uptown Charlotte near Plaza Midwood for early detection and gum disease treatment. 

What Causes Periodontal Disease?

There can be several causes of periodontal disease, ranging from plaque buildup to underlying medical conditions.

Plague and Tartar Buildup

Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and can harden into tartar. When plaque and tartar are left untreated, they can irritate the gums, causing them to swell and bleed. This leads to the development of pockets around the teeth, which trap more plaque and bacteria, further aggravating the condition.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Neglecting to brush and floss properly can result in the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth, leading to the formation of gum disease. Moreover, not going for regular dental checkups and cleanings can also exacerbate the condition as it allows the tartar to accumulate and cause damage.

Lifestyle

Certain lifestyle habits like smoking and chewing tobacco can lead to periodontal disease. For instance, nicotine is known to restrict blood flow to the gums, causing infection and bacterial growth. Additionally, the chemicals found in tobacco can damage the gums, teeth, and other oral tissues, leading to further complications.

Underlying Medical Conditions

Conditions such as diabetes and autoimmune diseases also contribute to the development of gum disease. Diabetes can cause blood sugar levels to rise, increasing the amount of sugar in the oral cavity, fostering the growth of bacteria, and aggravating gum disease. Similarly, underlying autoimmune diseases can affect the body’s ability to fight off infections and make the gums more susceptible to damage.

How to Know If You Have Periodontal Disease

Recognizing the signs of periodontal disease is essential for maintaining good oral health and preventing bone loss in teeth. So, what causes bone loss in teeth? Periodontitis is the major cause of bone loss in teeth. It causes teeth to loosen or eventually leads to tooth loss.

If you are experiencing any discomfort in your mouth, it is best to seek professional help immediately to know the cause and prevent any further damage to your oral health and overall well-being.

Signs and Symptoms

In its early stages, periodontal disease may be asymptomatic, but as it progresses, it can cause a range of signs and symptoms that indicate the need for prompt dental intervention. The signs and symptoms of periodontal disease are spotlighted below.

• Gum inflammation: This is caused by an accumulation of bacteria in the mouth that leads to an infection in the gums. Inflammation causes the gums to become red, swollen, and tender to the touch. Additionally, gum inflammation can cause bleeding while brushing or flossing, which is a clear sign that something is wrong.
• Pockets between the teeth and gums: These pockets are caused by the separation of the gum line from the teeth, which creates a gap where bacteria can accumulate. Over time, these pockets can become deeper and can lead to further damage to the gums and bone that supports the teeth.
• Halitosis: Bad breath is a common symptom of periodontal disease. This is because the bacteria that cause periodontal disease produce a foul-smelling gas that can cause bad breath. The accumulation of bacteria in the mouth can be a cause of persistent bad breath, even after brushing and flossing.
• Tooth mobility: Tooth mobility occurs because the bone that supports the teeth becomes weakened and begins to deteriorate. As a result, the teeth may loosen or shift, making it difficult to bite or chew.

If you notice any of the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease, you should not hesitate to visit our dentists in Uptown Charlotte near Midwood Plaza, Dr. Stacy Alston, DDS, and Dr. Drabick, for immediate assistance.

Get Periodontal Disease Treatment in Uptown Charlotte Near Midwood Plaza

Prompt and effective treatment is essential in managing periodontal disease. Patients living in Uptown Charlotte have us at Genesis Family Dentistry to bank on and receive the best gum disease treatment options available.

At Genesis Family Dentistry, we understand that treatment for gum diseases can’t be overstated. That’s why we offer effective periodontal disease treatment in Uptown Charlotte near Midwood Plaza to help you achieve and maintain the smile you deserve. Contact us today to maintain a healthy smile for a lifetime.