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Periodontitis is a severe infection of gums that occurs when bacteria have accumulated on teeth and gums. If caught in the initial stages and treated properly with adequate oral hygiene, the teeth and gums can be saved from excessive and irreversible damage.

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Gingivitis is the predecessor of periodontitis. It is a result of the toxins found in plaque and the bacteria that builds up on the teeth, and if left unchecked can lead to periodontitis.

There are some factors that increase your chances of developing gingivitis, including:

Birth control tablets

Being pregnant

Having uncontrolled diabetes

Taking medication to control blood pressure and seizures

Taking steroids

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- The most prevalent form of gum disease.
- Occurs commonly amongst those over the age of 45.

- Slight periodontitis is identified by the gum line being inflamed which leads to the progressive destruction of both the bone and gum tissue.

The Treatment:

The treatment for slight periodontitis involves prescribing antibiotics in addition to root planing and scaling.

However, the damage to supportive tissues cannot be reversed, but the progression of the infection can be stopped and prevented.

Sometimes it may be necessary for a dentist or periodontist to perform a surgical treatment.

Tissue and bone grafts are also used to improve the appearance of your oral cavity and strengthen the supporting bone.

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- Moderate periodontitis is where there is a rapid loss of bone and gum tissue and attachment.

- The infection is similar to that of chronic periodontitis, however, the progression is far more rapid.

Increased risk factors include:

Genetic predisposition

Smoking

The Treatment:

- The treatment for moderate periodontitis is similar to that of chronic periodontitis, however, those with this condition are more likely to need surgery of some kind. This infection is also harder to eliminate and treat.

- Dentists will opt for scaling procedures, antibiotic administration, and surgery as a combination treatment approach.

- A laser procedure may also be performed to try and save the valuable bone and tissue. A dental laser will be used to remove the bacteria and inflamed gum tissue surrounding the roots of the teeth.

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- Necrosis refers to the death of tissues.

- This is a form of gum disease that rapidly progresses

- Advanced periodontitis is a very rare condition.

Advanced periodontal disease is commonly seen with those who suffer from:

immunosuppression e.g. HIV/AIDS

malnutrition

chronic stress

smoke cigarettes and other tobacco products.

The Treatment:

The treatment process for advanced periodontitis will typically involve a dentist consulting with a doctor before treatment is commenced.

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Periodontitis is of four types:

1. Gingivitis

2. Slight Periodontal disease - (Chronic Periodontitis)

3. Moderate Periodontal disease - (Aggressive Periodontitis)

4. Advanced Periodontal disease - (Necrotising periodontitis)

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Is there a link between Periodontitis and Heart Disease.

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Is there a link between Periodontitis and Heart Disease.

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Heart disease includes conditions that narrow or block blood vessels.  When you do not brush your teeth, a substance called pus, which is made up of infected tissue, dead white blood cells, and bacteria with tissue debris and serum, builds up on the surface of the teeth. The pus only has two ways of leaving your mouth: Out of your mouth, or into your mouth. When you brush your teeth, the pus will go into the sink. Alternatively, it could go down your esophagus like indigestion with the food you eat. When the food is digested and the nutrients are being extracted, the pus is also extracted and absorbed into your bloodstream. The pus along with the blood is pumped to the heart, then to the lungs, back to the heart then to the whole body. This way, the pus is distributed to your whole body. This can create abscesses on all parts of your body, for example, the foot. This harmful bacterial in the pus builds up and blocks the arteries, limiting blood flow, therefore increasing the probability of developing heart attacks and other cardiovascular diseases.