What Are The Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments of Common Periodontal Diseases?
Welcome to Boston Dental Group in Mira Mesa, San Diego, CA, where our expert periodontist, Dr. Shin Ahn, is dedicated to providing exceptional care for your gum health. Periodontal diseases can have a significant impact on your oral well-being, affecting the gums and supporting structures around your teeth. In this blog, we will explore the various types of periodontal diseases, their causes, symptoms, and the effective treatments available to restore your oral health and keep your smile shining bright.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the most common and mildest form of periodontal disease. It is caused by the buildup of plaque on teeth, leading to gum inflammation.
Causes: Poor oral hygiene, allowing plaque to accumulate along the gumline.
Symptoms: Red, swollen, and tender gums, bleeding during brushing or flossing.
Treatment: Improved oral hygiene, regular dental cleanings, and professional scaling to remove plaque and tartar.
Chronic Periodontitis
Chronic periodontitis is a progressive condition that develops when gingivitis is left untreated. It affects both the gums and the bone supporting the teeth.
Causes: Prolonged presence of plaque and tartar, leading to bacterial infection and inflammation.
Symptoms: Receding gums, pockets forming between gums and teeth, loose teeth, changes in bite.
Treatment: Scaling and root planing to clean deep pockets, antibiotic therapy, and surgical procedures for advanced cases.
Aggressive Periodontitis
Aggressive periodontitis is a more severe and rapidly progressing form of periodontal disease, often affecting younger individuals.
Causes: Genetic factors and a hyperactive immune response to bacteria.
Symptoms: Severe gum inflammation, rapid bone destruction, loose teeth.
Treatment: Immediate and aggressive intervention, including deep cleaning, antibiotic therapy, and surgical treatments.
Periodontitis as a Manifestation of Systemic Diseases
Periodontitis can be influenced by certain systemic conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease.
Causes: Interplay between the underlying systemic condition and gum inflammation.
Symptoms: Concurrent symptoms of the systemic disease alongside gum and bone loss.
Treatment: A collaborative approach with other healthcare providers to manage both the systemic disease and periodontitis.
Necrotizing Periodontal Diseases
Necrotizing periodontal diseases involve the death of gum tissue, leading to painful ulcers and halitosis (bad breath). These diseases usually affect individuals with compromised immune systems.
Causes: Weakened immune response, often triggered by stress, smoking, or malnutrition.
Symptoms: Painful gum ulcers, rapid tissue destruction.
Treatment: Immediate professional intervention, including deep cleaning, antibiotic therapy, and addressing underlying health issues.
At Boston Dental Group in Mira Mesa, San Diego, CA, our mission is to help you maintain optimal gum health and a beautiful smile. Understanding the different types of periodontal diseases, their causes, symptoms, and treatments is crucial for early detection and effective management. If you experience any symptoms of periodontal disease or require specialized care, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with Dr. Shin Ahn, our skilled periodontist. Together, we can protect your oral health, restore your gum function, and ensure you enjoy a lifetime of smiles. Remember, preventive care and regular dental check-ups are the keys to a healthy and happy mouth!
