Did you ever experience excessive pain when chewing or notice bleeding gums? As you were unaware of what was happening, you made an appointment with your dentist in Colorado Springs. And after your appointment, you found out that you have periodontitis.
So what is periodontitis?
Periodontitis, also known as gum disease or periodontal disease, is an oral condition where an infection occurs, particularly in the gums. Over time, this infection damages the tissue and may affect the bones supporting your teeth. If left untreated, this disease may worsen, leading to tooth loss.
What causes periodontitis?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 47% of adults ages 30 and above are experiencing cases of gum disease. With that in mind, it is important for you to know its causes in order to prevent it from developing in its early stages.
Here are some of the factors that lead to periodontitis:
- Having a poor oral hygiene
- Ongoing gingivitis disease, diabetes, or inflammation in the gums
- Excessive smoking and chewing of tobacco
- Plaque that has solidified into tartar beneath the teeth
- Lack of essential nutrients
- A person’s genetics
- Change in one’s hormones
Symptoms
Our bad oral habits are sometimes hard to break. Thus, if you cannot change these habits, you increase the risk of developing periodontitis.
Here are some of the symptoms of periodontitis that you should know:
- Swelling of gums
- Bleeding of gums after brushing
- Unpleasant smell of breath
- Loosening of teeth
- Developing of pus in the gums
- Receding of the gums from the teeth
Can a dental laser treat periodontitis?
The short answer is yes! But take note that it requires your cooperation to bear great results.
Laser periodontal therapy involves using a laser to remove infected gum tissue around the root of your tooth. Following this, your Colorado Springs dentist will remove the calcified tartar from beneath your teeth. They will then smooth out the rough areas of your teeth to reduce your risk of developing periodontitis.
Remember that your gums and teeth may need some time to heal after the therapy. Be careful and take care of them until it fully recovers.
Were you interested in getting laser therapy to treat your periodontal disease? We got you covered.
Here at Crossroads Family Dentistry, our best dentists in Colorado Springs strive to provide you with the highest standard of treatment you will need.
For more information about our laser periodontal therapy and other dental services, please visit our website.