Gum disease—more properly called periodontitis—is a serious infection that destroys the soft tissue and bone that supports your teeth. Untreated, it can result in tooth loss and other health problems. If not taken care of, periodontitis can transition into advanced gum disease and cause more health issues, so knowing the causes, symptoms, and treatments for this form of gum disease is important as said by a dentist in Memorial City, West Houston. This blog post is intended to offer some sound advice about periodontitis for residents of Houston and encourage them to seek expert dental help.

What is Periodontitis?

Periodontitis is a more serious end of the spectrum of gum disease and results in severe infection of the gums and bone surrounding the teeth. It starts with a buildup of plaque — a film of bacteria that sticks to the teeth. Plaque hardens into tartar if it’s not removed by brushing and flossing, and only a dental professional can get rid of that. In the long run, this can cause inflammation of the gums (gingivitis), with possible progression to periodontitis if left untreated.

Causes of Periodontitis

Some of the reasons that can lead to the formation of periodontitis are:

Lack of Oral hygiene: Not brushing and flossing properly can make plaque and tartar form and eventually contribute to gum disease.
Smoking and Tobacco Use: All types of tobacco products can be significant risk factors for developing periodontitis, as they impair your gums’ ability to heal and resist infection.
Genetics: Certain people have a hereditary tendency for gum disease, and may have greater risk for periodontitis.
Chronic Illnesses: Serious diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and rheumatoid arthritis tend to raise the probability of periodontitis developing.
Hormones’ Effects: Fluctuations in hormones, at puberty, during pregnancy, and at menopause, can make gums more sensitive to infection.
Medications: Some medications can cause a decrease in saliva, causing a dry mouth and a higher risk of periodontal disease.

Periodontitis Symptoms

Bloated, Red, or Bleeding Gums: Gums can become engorged, soft, and bloody, particularly while brushing or flossing.
Persistent Bad Breath: Chronic halitosis, or bad breath, can indicate a gum infection.
Gum recession: The gums may pull away from the teeth and make them seem longer.
Loose or Moving Teeth: The gums begin to recede, damaging the supporting bone, which can result in loose or shifting teeth.
Sensitive Chewing: Chewing becomes painful in advanced periodontitis.
Pus Between Gums: Pus or other discharge that seeps between the teeth and gums is a big indication of infection.

How to Treat Periodontitis in Houston?

Periodontitis is a serious condition that needs proper dental treatment. There are many treatment options available in Houston for the management and treatment of periodontitis, depending on the severity of the disease:

Scaling and root planing: This deep-cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line and smooths the tooth roots to avoid further bacteria growth.
Antibiotics: Oral rinses, gels, or medications can help control infection.
Surgical Treatments: In severe cases of periodontitis, surgical procedures may be required. These procedures can include flap surgery (the removal of the deposits of tartar from below the gum line and cleaning of the roots of teeth to reduce the size of the periodontal pockets), bone grafts (to regenerate lost bone), and soft tissue grafts.

Periodontitis is a serious – gum infection that leads to damage to the soft tissue and if not effectively treated, harmful to the bone that supports the teeth. With an understanding of its causes, symptoms, and treatment options, Houston residents can take proactive measures to preserve their gum health. Preventing the disease requires routine dental visits and good oral hygiene practices.