Periodontology is an area of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of diseases affecting the tissues that support the teeth, including the gums, alveolar bone and periodontal ligament.

Gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums, is a common form of early periodontal disease.

Periodontitis, on the other hand, involves bone loss, but there are treatments available. Read on to learn more about these treatments.

What leads to bleeding gums?

There are several factors that can contribute to the development of periodontal diseases, but the bacteria present in the oral cavity and the bacterial plaque are the main causes of these pathologies.

They produce toxins and cause inflammation in the tissues that support the teeth.

The first warning sign is bleeding gums when brushing the teeth, as well as swelling and a change in the color of the gums, making them redder.

In periodontitis, the disease is already more advanced and can cause detachment of the gums, formation of bacteria accumulation pockets, bone loss, gum recession, black triangles between the teeth, pain, and tooth mobility.

What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is the early form of periodontal disease. It is characterized by swollen, red, inflamed gums and bleeding.

It is usually caused by inadequate oral hygiene. The inflammation of the tissues does not affect the bone, so gingivitis is a condition that can be reversed.

What causes periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is mainly caused by plaque, which is a collection of bacteria that naturally exist in the mouth and adhere to the surface of the teeth along with food debris and toxins they produce.

When not removed properly through good oral hygiene habits, this plaque can become harmful and cause the disease.

Several factors can contribute to the development of periodontal disease, including genetics, hormonal changes, diabetes, medications, tobacco, stress.

Does periodontitis have an impact on overall health?

Periodontitis is a disease that manifests itself in the mouth and has negative effects on overall health.

It can affect the progression of other diseases such as diabetes, lung and heart problems, and even cause premature births of low-birth-weight babies.

What is the treatment for periodontal disease?

Treatment for periodontal disease begins with an evaluation and diagnostic appointment.

The first stage of treatment includes eliminating the cause of the disease and minimizing risk factors. This includes performing professional cleanings, such as scaling and root planing, to clean and disinfect the mouth.

The patient is also guided on how to improve their daily oral hygiene.

In the second stage, a new evaluation of the oral condition is made, and if there are no signs of disease activity, the patient enters the maintenance stage, with regular visits to prevent disease recurrence.

If necessary, a corrective stage can be performed, with surgical techniques to repair the damage caused by the disease.

It is important to remember that periodontitis is a chronic disease and although it can be controlled, it has no cure.

Is periodontal disease contagious?

Periodontitis is a disease caused by bacteria and is related to the function of the immune system, which may increase susceptibility to the disease.

In addition, there is evidence that there is a strong genetic predisposition for periodontitis.

Although periodontitis is not considered highly contagious, there can be transmission between close people if they have susceptibility.

Therefore, it is advisable to have a periodontal evaluation appointment if your partner has periodontitis.

It is also recommended for young adults, 20 years and older, to have a periodontal evaluation appointment if the parent has been diagnosed with periodontitis.

How do I know if I should see a periodontologist?

If you are experiencing prolonged bleeding gums or sensitivity, it is important to make an appointment with a periodontologist.

During this appointment, the dentist will examine your oral health and identify possible gingivitis or periodontitis.

The recommended frequency for an oral cleaning appointment is every 6 months, however, this frequency can be adjusted according to individual needs.

What is peri-implantitis?

Peri-implantitis is a disease that affects the tissues around one or more dental implants. Instead of affecting the tissues that support the natural teeth, it affects the tissues that surround the osseointegrated implants.