Periodontist FAQ: What Is Periodontitis?

Periodontist FAQ: What Is Periodontitis? from Brighton Periodontal & Implant Dental Group in Woodland Hills, CAFor gum problems, a periodontist is the right person to assess your condition. This dentist can diagnose the issue you are having and provide the right treatment. One of the most common dental problems that people have is periodontitis. Otherwise known as periodontal disease or gum disease, it can range in severity. Mild cases can quickly turn more serious without intervention and prompt attention.

An overview of periodontitis

Gum disease is an infection that damages or destroys the soft tissue of the gums. Untreated, it can eventually affect the bone that holds the teeth in place. Bone loss can occur, which may also lead to a person losing teeth. People of all ages can struggle with this disease. Treatment is available, though gum disease at its most serious stages can be irreversible. A periodontist is a dentist that focuses on the prevention and treatment of the disease and its effects on oral health and overall wellness.

How it starts

Periodontitis develops on the gums as bacteria build up on the gumline and teeth. This can happen due to poor brushing and flossing habits. As sugars and starches remain on the teeth and in the mouth, a sticky film called plaque forms. It will harden and turn into difficult-to-remove tartar. The gums will become inflamed, and pockets of bacteria can develop. As a result, infections will follow, causing pain, discomfort, and sickness.

Symptoms

A periodontist can diagnose gum disease through a routine examination. But there are signs that the patient can see and feel that indicate this condition is present. A person with gum disease may have bleeding gums while flossing or eating. The gums will be swollen and tender as well. A person with periodontitis may have bad breath or loose teeth.

Risk factors

Once the patient learns they have periodontitis, focusing on brushing and flossing is essential. Other treatments can relieve the effects of gum disease and restore the person’s gum health. A process called scaling is often the first approach. A hygienist will use an ultrasonic tool or other instrument to scrape plaque and tartar from the teeth and beneath the gums. Root planing is another option. This technique smooths the root surfaces and helps to prevent further bacterial growth.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Periodontist in Woodland Hills, CA

Gum disease prevention and treatment are possible

Just like tooth decay, periodontitis is a dental condition that you want to avoid. The consequences of gum disease can be serious and long-lasting. The key is to brush and floss daily and to visit the dentist regularly. If you are struggling with swollen gums and other symptoms of gums disease, visit a periodontist today. You can enjoy good oral health once more.

Request an appointment or call Brighton Periodontal & Implant Dental Group at 818-703-7733 for an appointment in our Woodland Hills office.

Recent Posts

Expert Periodontist Services For Healthy Gums And Beautiful Smiles

People who are seeking healthy gums but are dealing with challenges with gingivitis can see an expert periodontist, a dental professional who has studied the structures that support the teeth. These include the gums, the jawbone itself, and the ligaments that help hold the teeth in place.Periodontists are trained dentists who focus their attention on…

Periodontics: Tips For Healthier Gums

Periodontics focuses on gum health. Keeping your gums healthy is the main goal of every treatment. Detecting any problem early leads to early treatment. You can also do your part in caring for your gums. Here are some tips from dental professionals who work in periodontics on how to have healthier gums.Bad bacteria in the…

Gum Recession Treatment From A Periodontist

When we go to the dentist or periodontist, one of the last things that we expect to hear is that we need gum recession treatment. However, gum recession happens to many people for many reasons. When it does happen, it is important to get it treated properly as soon as possible to avoid further damage.…

Recent Posts

Tooth Replacement: Restore Your Smile With Confidence

Tooth Replacement: Restore Your Smile With Confidence

A missing tooth can have consequences on oral health and self-confidence. The good news is that periodontists have several tooth replacement options to restore a patient’s smile, no matter where the lost tooth was located. Whether through surgical or nonsurgical tooth replacements, periodontists can effectively fill gaps in your smile, improve bite function and force,…

Transform Your Smile With Expert Implant Dentistry

Transform Your Smile With Expert Implant Dentistry

It is common for people to be self-conscious about their smile, and many do not realize just how big of an impact that expert implant dentistry can have. Implants provide functional and aesthetic benefits that other restorations cannot achieve. The implant process is more in-depth than options like dentures, so the overall outcome is also…