Preventing Severe Gum Problems
Periodontitis, commonly known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection that destroys the supporting structures of the teeth. Your gums are your first line of defense against bacterial infection. However, once the infection breaks through the gum it can attack the ligaments and bones that hold the teeth together. Bone loss due to bacterial erosion can occur and cause the pocket (the space between the gum and tooth) to grow deeper and wider. If left untreated, this disease can cause pain and tooth loss, and may require you to undergo costly gum and bone grafts.
Oftentimes, periodontitis is a silent disease because those who suffer from it rarely experience pain, and may not even be aware that there is a problem. The early stages of periodontal disease are seldom painful, but give early warnings, such as slight bleeding while brushing, softening of the gums, and coloration of the gums (darker red/irritated in appearance rather than a light and healthy pink).
As periodontitis progresses, signs become more noticeable: swollen gums, inflated and receding gums that make teeth longer, spaces developing between teeth, persistent bad taste and bad breath, mouth sores, and bright red or purple gums, among others. If you have any of the above signs, you are significantly farther down the path of periodontitis; thus, you need to visit a periodontist immediately.
However, many people are still unaware of what a periodontist actually does. A periodontist in Houston TX and elsewhere around the country will have undergone intensive training to treat mouth and gum-related concerns. His services include dental implants, treating gum disease, and gingivitis. Periodontist treatments consist of preventative and rehabilitative measures.
Since your resistance to periodontitis is affected by various factors, a periodontist in Houston TX begins with your medical and dental history; a thorough examination of your mouth then follows. During your second appointment with him, he discusses the findings and a recommended treatment plan with you.
Delaying diagnosis and treatment of periodontitis only means delaying the benefits that treating it provides. Immediate diagnosis and treatment prevent further destruction to the gum and bone tissue. By visiting a periodontist in Houston TX, your ability to taste and enjoy various food is protected; you also avoid suffering from unnecessary pain caused by the disease.
About the Author
If you have questions, please visit us at www.periohealth.com for complete details and answers.
Rating: Not yet rated