“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and destroys the bone that supports the teeth. It is caused by bacteria that are normally present in the mouth, but which can cause infection and inflammation if they are not properly removed through regular brushing and flossing.
Some common symptoms of periodontitis include:
Treatment for periodontitis typically involves a combination of non-surgical and surgical procedures. Non-surgical treatments may include scaling and root planing, which involves deep cleaning of the teeth and gums to remove plaque and tartar. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to help control infection.
Surgical treatments may be necessary for more advanced cases of periodontitis. These may include flap surgery, in which the gums are lifted to allow for more thorough cleaning of the teeth and roots, and bone and tissue grafts to replace damaged bone and tissue.
Preventing periodontitis involves practicing good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing regularly, and visiting a dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake may also help to reduce the risk of developing periodontitis.