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Periodontitis – disease of the gum tissue

PREVENTION, DIAGNOSIS, AND TREATMENT

Periodontics is a crucial field of dentistry, especially considering the prevalence of the diseases it addresses in modern times. It encompasses the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting the soft tissues and supporting structures of the teeth. It is estimated that every third adult suffers from some form of periodontal disease, with periodontitis being the most severe form.

Periodontitis is an advanced chronic inflammation of the gums caused by the presence of bacteria in dental plaque. Over time, these bacteria lead to the development of inflammation, which affects the supporting structures of the teeth. It is important to treat periodontitis in a timely manner to prevent permanent damage to the supporting structures.

CAUSES OF PERIODONTITIS

  • Food retention is one of the main causes of this disease. When food debris accumulates between the teeth, it creates a favorable environment for bacterial growth. In a healthy mouth, there is no food retention because the proper shape of the teeth and their contact prevent it from occurring.

  • Poor habits such as chewing food on one side of the jaw, consuming only soft or liquid food that lacks self-cleaning effects, mouth breathing leading to gum dryness, all contribute to the rapid development of bacteria. Smoking, which reduces the body’s natural defense mechanisms, also significantly contributes to the development of periodontitis.

  • Periodontitis can also be caused by genetic factors, increased stress, hormonal changes (e.g., during pregnancy or menopause).

SYMPTOMS AND CONSEQUENCES OF PERIODONTITIS

  • Accumulation of dental plaque

  • Inflamed gums – enlarged, red, swollen gums

  • Bleeding gums

  • Feeling of a foreign body between the teeth

  • Gum recession

  • Periodontal pockets

  • Unpleasant breath

  • Tooth migration

  • Loose and missing teeth

Periodontitis most commonly occurs in middle-aged and older individuals, and its progression can vary greatly from person to person, ranging from slow and chronic to rapid and aggressive. If left untreated, periodontitis carries various risks for different conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, rheumatism, and preterm birth.

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