Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a serious condition that can cause tooth loss and damage to the jawbone if left untreated. While periodontal disease is more commonly seen in adults, it can occur in children as well. The good news is that periodontal disease is reversible in its early stages, before it has caused any significant damage.
Signs of Periodontal Disease
The key signs of periodontal disease are red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Other symptoms may include receding gums, bad breath, and loose teeth. If these symptoms are present, it is important to visit a dentist as soon as possible to get a diagnosis and begin treatment.
Stages of Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is divided into four stages: gingivitis, mild periodontitis, moderate periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. Gingivitis is the early stage of periodontal disease and is reversible with proper treatment. In mild periodontitis, the gums are still swollen and may bleed, but the damage is not yet extensive. Moderate periodontitis is the stage in which the gum tissue begins to recede and pockets form around the teeth, and in advanced periodontitis, the pockets get deeper and the bone is damaged.
Treatment for Periodontal Disease
The most effective treatment for periodontal disease is professional cleaning and scaling by a dentist or dental hygienist. This procedure removes plaque and tartar from the teeth and gum line. The dentist may also prescribe antibiotics if there is an infection. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage caused by periodontal disease.
In conclusion, periodontal disease is reversible in its early stages. If the disease is detected and treated early, the teeth and gums can be saved. It is important to visit a dentist regularly for check-ups and to get professional cleaning done to prevent periodontal disease from progressing.