Gum and jawbone diseases come under the class of periodontal diseases and are diagnosed or treated by periodontists rather than general physicians. However, these diseases can result in other illnesses, which are of concern to doctors. Teeth infections, gingivae, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone diseases can spread to other structures and cause illnesses such as sinusitis, osteomyelitis of the jaw, and aspiration pneumonia.
The single most effective way to stop the development and progression of periodontal diseases is by maintaining good oral hygiene. Poor oral hygiene can also contribute to cardiovascular diseases, and this is why it is crucial to understand the nature of periodontal diseases and follow apt preventive measures in advance.
Common Periodontal Diseases
Dental caries: Dental caries is abrasions or injuries to the enamel and dentin (layer underneath the enamel) of the teeth. The bacterial species present in healthy dental biofilm causes several distressing symptoms, which then leads to dental caries.
Gingivitis: This occurs when there is a build-up of plaque that eventually leads to a bacterial infection of gums. Untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontitis which may even lead to tooth loss.
Periodontitis: Periodontitis disease is characterized by an infection/inflammation of the supporting structures of the teeth (e.g., periodontal ligament and alveolar bone).
Besides these common illnesses, many unknown dangers occur as a result of gum disease. The effects of gum disease go beyond the teeth/gums, and it can directly impact the jawbone.
Gum diseases usually present in the form of infection can spread if left untreated, like any other infection. However, there are restorative dentistry treatments that can successfully reverse the damage caused by gum disease and prevent jawbone loss altogether.
Relation Between Gum Disease and Jawbone Loss
Gum disease, otherwise known as periodontal disease, results in an infection of the gums and is caused by the bacteria found in plaque and tartar. If the symptoms are left untreated, the gum disease will progress from gingivitis to a more severe form of periodontitis.
When the periodontitis progresses, it can spread beyond the gum tissue and infect the jawbone. The periodontitis will then infect the jawbone and other tissues supporting the teeth. As a result, the tissues will begin to deteriorate and the teeth will become loose, when left unsupported and may even fall out.
Oral Hygiene
Before opting for restorative treatments, you have to be aware of the preventive measures for dental caries and periodontal diseases. Patients should follow a rigid oral hygiene routine to prevent gum and jawbone diseases.
Oral hygiene should include brushing twice a day, flossing, and mouthwash. Follow the two-minute rule while brushing to make sure that you are brushing for two whole minutes day and night. Use a fluoride toothpaste as it removes bacteria and forms a layer over the teeth to prevent further damage.
Dental Check-Up
You should also visit the dentist to conduct an overall check-up, and schedule an appointment with a dental hygienist to clean your teeth professionally at least twice a year. Along with this, try to cut down on foods rich in sugar.
If the gum disease has progressed you have to immediately consult the periodontist, the different treatment options include flap procedure, soft tissue graft and bone grafts. These treatments are only suggested if there is no other procedure to overcome the gum and jawbone disease.
The dentist may have to add a dental implant if the jawbone disease has led to tooth loss. The treatment procedure can only be performed once the jawbone is restored. The treatment process can be complicated if the infection spreads to other parts of the body. Hence it is advised to not delay any treatment for gum and jawbone diseases.
Consult our American dental clinic to relieve pain and restore your oral health to its top-notch condition today.