Periodontal
Periodontal disease is an insidious gum disease that threatens (in the absence of treatment) complete loss of teeth over time.
CAUSES OF THE DISEASE
The main reason for the development of periodontal disease is non–compliance with the rules of oral hygiene. At the same time, plaque accumulates, in which bacteria develop. Their vital activity leads to the development of inflammation and bleeding of the gums, which, in turn, causes loosening of the teeth.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
The symptoms of periodontal disease depend on the severity of the disease. At the initial and middle stages, the patient notes bleeding of the gums, often quite profuse. Teeth begin to loosen slightly, it becomes harder to bite solid food. A heavy, unpleasant putrid smell begins to emanate from the mouth.
With a neglected form of periodontal disease, the teeth are loosened very much, and the gums often bleed even without touching them.
diagnostics
Periodontal disease is diagnosed in several ways. As a rule, the dentist begins the diagnosis with a visual examination. In the future, he is prescribed an X-ray examination of the oral cavity in order to determine the degree of bone damage.
It is also important to study the properties of microorganisms that caused periodontal disease.
Images of the oral cavity during periodontal disease can also be performed by radiovisiography.
Based on the results of a comprehensive examination of the oral cavity, the doctor draws up a phased treatment program and selects certain techniques.
PRINCIPLES OF TREATMENT
Periodontal disease, contrary to popular belief, is completely curable. At the initial stage, the disease can be stopped by curettage (cleaning) of gingival pockets with the removal of dental deposits and subsequent polishing of teeth.
With advanced periodontal disease, the doctor resorts to surgical intervention. We are talking about the removal of affected teeth, about cleaning the gingival pockets with a laser installation.
An important role in the therapy of periodontal disease is also played by the general strengthening of the body, strengthening of immunity, regeneration of gum tissue. It is optimal to consult not only a dentist, but also an immunologist, therapist, neurologist and endocrinologist.
With a neglected form of periodontal disease with severe loosening of the teeth, it is also necessary to use orthodontic devices to fix the teeth and reduce the load on them. This makes it possible to gradually restore the functions of the teeth.
Among other methods, it is worth noting therapy with the use of vacuum installations – it helps to normalize blood circulation in the tissues of the oral cavity. And physiotherapy techniques help to reduce the activity of microbes in the oral cavity and stimulate the restoration of periodontal tissues.
There are also specialized devices designed specifically for the treatment of periodontal disease – for example, laser installations. Their popularity is due to the painlessness and lack of risk of inflammatory processes.
Antibiotics also play a role in the treatment of periodontal disease, but only as an integral part of the therapy complex. They make it possible to suppress the activity of pathogenic microbes.
PREVENTION
The most important measure for the prevention of periodontal disease is careful daily observance of oral hygiene. We are talking, first of all, about brushing your teeth. If possible, teeth should be cleaned every time after eating. If not, then you need to use dental floss or mouthwash.
The choice of a toothbrush is also of great importance. The best way to clean teeth is an electric brush. If it is not possible to purchase it, then it is better to choose a brush with rounded bristles, not too rough, in order to exclude damage to the gums.
