The Types of Periodontal Disease and How to Treat Them

Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, includes the two diseases called Gingivitis and Periodontitis. Both of these conditions are the result of bacteria from plaque on the teeth causing the gums to become inflamed. Once inflamed, the chronic bacterial infection that forms can affect the bones that support the teeth and the gums.  What is interesting about periodontal disease is the fact that it can affect just one tooth or all of your teeth. Regardless of how many teeth it affects, periodontal disease can be quite devastating.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the mildest type of gum disease that you can have. Those with Gingivitis find that the gums become red or swollen. They may even get to the point in which they bleed easily. Fortunately, one does not feel much pain or discomfort at this phase, but these are warning signs that something needs to be done before it gets out of hand. When it gets out of hand, an individual may develop mouth sores, itchy gums, or that their gums become dark red and bleed anytime pressure is applied.

The way to prevent and stop Gingivitis in its tracks is through regular oral hygiene. The cause is usually due to poor oral hygiene, so doing the opposite can stop it. Brushing, flossing, keeping up with your regular dental appointments, and using products such as Nature’s Smile will keep your gums free of gum disease and keep your overall smile healthy.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is what Gingivitis can turn into if it is not treated. This type of gum disease is when the plaque grows beyond the gum line. The bacterium produces toxins that causes an inflammatory response, causing the bone and tissue that supports the teeth to be broken down. The tissue is then eventually destroyed. The gums then separate causing pockets between the teeth and gums that later become infected. The ultimate result is teeth that become loose and have to be removed. Many do not realize this is happening until it is too late because the destructive process is painless. There are also different types of Periodontitis. These types are:

• Chronic Periodontitis: This type occurs the most and affects the tissue and bone supporting the teeth. Deterioration is slow, but pockets do form.
• Aggressive Periodontitis: Rapid deterioration occurs.
• Necrotizing Periodontal Disease: Infection that affects tissue and bone. Prevalent in those with systemic conditions.
• Periodontitis manifested from systemic diseases: This type is prevalent in those with heart disease, diabetes, and diseases of the respiratory system.

Prevention is, of course, good oral hygiene. The treatment consists of using a Proxi-brush and keeping up with proper oral hygiene. Products such as Nature’s Smile will also aid in the successful treatment of this type of gum disease as well.

Obviously, gum disease is not a laughing matter. That is why you should do what you can to prevent it before it starts and treat it as soon as you notice it. Just because periodontal disease may become a part of your life doesn’t mean you have to submit yourself to losing your teeth. You can do something about it.