Periodontitis is a disease that affects the gums and the bone supporting the teeth. In this condition, the gums become inflamed and infected, which can result in loosening of the gums, bone loss and tooth mobility.

Before periodontitis develops, people often experience gingivitis, a milder form of gum disease. Gingivitis is characterized by gums that are red, swollen and may bleed. If not treated properly, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis.

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Causes of periodontitis ¡Patterns to watch out for! 👀

The main cause of periodontitis is the accumulation of dental plaque. Plaque is a sticky layer composed mainly of bacteria that forms on the teeth. When good oral hygiene is not maintained, the bacteria present in plaque can infect the gums and trigger an inflammatory response, leading to the development of periodontal disease.

In addition to plaque accumulation, other factors can contribute to the development of periodontitis, such as hormonal changes, diseases such as cancer or HIV, medications that affect saliva production, smoking and a family history of periodontal disease.

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Periodontitis often does not cause pain in its early stages, making it difficult to detect early. However, there are some signs and symptoms that may indicate the presence of this disease. These include:

🦷Inflammation of the gums
🦷Tartar or calculus on the teeth
🦷Bleeding of the gums when brushing or flossing
🦷Persistent bad breath or metallic taste in the mouth
🦷Pain when chewing food
🦷Tooth sensitivity
🦷Retracted gums
🦷Mobility or loosening of teeth
🦷Pus at the edges of the gums
🦷Pus at the edges of the gums
🦷Changes in the way the teeth fit together when biting down

In some cases, patients may not experience obvious symptoms, which highlights the importance of regular dental visits for the control and early detection of periodontal diseases.

Treatments for periodontitis at ProDent

Treatment of periodontitis may vary depending on the severity of the disease and the area affected. Non-surgical treatments are usually effective in mild to moderate cases, while more severe cases may require surgical interventions.

❌Non-surgical treatments:

In mild to moderate cases of periodontitis, non-surgical treatments are recommended. These options include:

Improving oral hygiene: Adopting good dental hygiene habits is essential to control periodontal disease. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a proper toothbrush and flossing to remove plaque in hard-to-reach areas
Medicated mouth rinses: Special mouth rinses containing antibacterial compounds can help reduce the buildup of bacteria in the mouth and control gum inflammation
Oral or topical antibiotics: In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat bacterial infections associated with periodontitis. They may be administered orally or applied directly to the affected area
Deep tooth cleaning: Professional tooth cleaning, known as scaling and root planing, is a key procedure in the treatment of periodontitis. It is performed under local anesthesia and involves removing plaque and dental calculus (tartar) from the surfaces of the teeth and roots. Polishing is also performed to smooth the tooth surfaces. In some cases, several sessions may be necessary to complete the treatment

✅Surgical treatments:

In more advanced cases of periodontitis, surgical treatments may be necessary. These include:

Flap surgery: In more complex situations, flap surgery is performed in which an incision is made in the gums to access the roots of the teeth. This allows for a deeper cleaning of the tooth surfaces and surrounding bone. In some cases, it may also be necessary to correct the shape of the gums or perform a bone graft to treat bone loss
Guided tissue regeneration: This procedure is used to promote bone tissue growth and gum regeneration. A special membrane is placed between the bone and gums to prevent unwanted tissue growth and encourage healthy tissue growth
Gum grafting: In cases where the gums have receded significantly, leaving the roots exposed, a gum graft can be performed. This involves taking tissue from another area of the mouth or using a filling material to cover the exposed roots and restore the gum line

It is important to note that the treatment of periodontitis should be personalized and performed by a dental professional. The best dentists in Tijuana will evaluate your oral condition and determine the appropriate approach to treatment.

How to prevent periodontal diseases 👀

To prevent periodontal diseases and maintain good oral health, it is important to follow some preventive measures:

Schedule regular dental visits: Go for regular dental check-ups at least twice a year, even if you have no symptoms. At ProDent our expert dentists will be able to evaluate the condition of your gums and detect any problems at an early stage

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Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day using proper technique and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Floss daily to clean between teeth and reach hard-to-reach areas. You can also complement your routine with the use of antibacterial mouthwash

Stop smoking: Smoking is a significant risk factor for the development of periodontal disease. Smoking weakens the immune system and hinders the body's ability to fight bacterial infections in the gums. If you are a smoker, consider seeking help to quit smoking to reduce your risk of periodontal disease

Manage stress: Chronic stress can negatively affect the immune system, which increases the risk of periodontal disease. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as practicing relaxation exercises, exercising regularly or seeking professional support if needed

Maintain a balanced diet: A balanced, nutrient-rich diet is beneficial for oral health. Avoid excessive consumption of sugars and processed foods, as they contribute to the formation of dental plaque and increase the risk of gum disease. Instead, include healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and low-fat dairy products

Avoid bruxism: Bruxism, which is the habit of clenching or grinding your teeth, can put extra pressure on your gums and teeth, causing damage and contributing to the development of periodontal disease. If you suffer from bruxism, consult your dentist to get a mouth guard or seek appropriate treatments

Remember that prevention is fundamental to avoid periodontal diseases. Maintaining good oral health and adopting healthy habits in the care of your teeth and gums will help you maintain a healthy smile throughout your life.

If you experience any symptoms of periodontal disease, such as gum inflammation, bleeding or persistent bad breath, it is important that you consult one of our dentists in Tijuana as soon as possible to receive a proper diagnosis and timely treatment.

¿What is periodontal disease or periodontitis?