Dentoword: Today's Word is 'Periodontitis'.

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  Today's word is "Periodontitis"

Periodontitis : 'One Advanced Step Beyond Gingivitis'

In our previous post, we discussed the early disease of the gums, i.e., gingivitis. Today we have one step more advanced than yesterday in the case of gum diseases, i.e. periodontitis which is a more severe form of gum disease that is not treated in the initial stages. If not treated, it will cause irreversible damage to the tooth and lead to tooth mobility. To understand the cause, prevention, and treatment, we can protect our teeth for as long as possible. So, without any further delay, let's start our dentoword journey with today's word: Periodontitis.

Definition :

An inflammatory disease of the supporting tissues of the teeth caused by microorganisms, resulting in progressive destruction of the periodontal ligament (PDL) and alveolar bone with increased probing depth formation, gingival recession, or both.

Causes of Periodontitis :

• The cause of periodontitis is the extension of inflammation, which progresses to the pathological deepening of the gingival sulcus towards the apical portion of the roots. 

• This transition marks the shift from gingivitis to periodontitis. 

• Periodontitis is always preceded by gingivitis, but not all gingivitis progresses into periodontitis. 

• For a detailed explanation of the causes of gingivitis, you can check out my previous post on gingivitis.

 Here is the link:

Gingivitis.

Clinical Features of Periodontitis:

• Swollen bluish-red marginal gingiva with a ‘rolled’ edge separated from the tooth surface.
  
  
  

• A break in the buccolingual continuity of the interdental gingiva.

• Shiny, discolored, and bulbous gingiva associated with exposed root surfaces.

• Gingival bleeding and purulent exudate from the gingival margin after probing.

• Mobility, extrusion, and migration of affected teeth due to periodontitis.

• The development of diastema due to the migration of teeth.

• Localised pain or a sensation of pressure in the gingiva after eating, which gradually diminishes over time.
• A foul taste in the mouth due to periodontitis.
  
  
  

• Radiating pain “deep in the bone,” a “gnawing” feeling, or a sensation of itching in the involved region.
  
  
  
• Patients complain that food accumulates between teeth and gums.
• Sensitivity to heat and cold, and toothache in the absence of caries.
  
  
  

Diagnosis of Periodontitis:

1.Medical and Habit History: 

A detailed medical and habit history of the patient before starting any treatment is important to properly understand the causes of periodontitis or any underlying conditions contributing to it.

2.Visual Examination:

Clinical examination of the gingiva's color, texture, consistency, inflammation, and bleeding on probing is important to distinguish normal gingiva from affected gingiva.

3.Radiographic Diagnosis:

Checking for bone loss due to periodontitis is crucial to understand the prognosis of the disease and to help plan the treatment accordingly.

Personal Insight:

During my college posting in the periodontology department, I encountered many cases of periodontitis. I learned how crucial it is to prevent periodontitis in its earlier stages to save teeth from extraction due to periodontal problems. For example, one patient came to our OPD with several teeth having slight mobility, mild pain, foul odor, and loss of attachment below the original position of the gingiva. After undergoing periodontal therapy, we achieved significant improvements in his oral health: the mobility was reduced, and all the above-mentioned symptoms were alleviated.This example underscores the importance of maintaining healthy teeth and surrounding tissues for a radiant smile. Understanding and addressing periodontal issues early can make a significant difference.

Prevention & Management of Periodontitis:

1.Oral Hygiene Practices:

• Brush twice daily, including flossing and tongue cleaning.
• Gingival massage is important to combat gum diseases.
• Professional cleaning is essential to remove plaque and improve gingival health.
• Use mouthwash to fight bacteria and prevent plaque formation.

2.Regular Dental Check-ups:

• Visit your dentist every six months to catch gum conditions early and prevent disease progression.
• Procedures like scaling and root planing, periodontal therapy, and the removal of the pocket side of the tooth by extraction, hemisection, or root section may be necessary.

3.Quit Smoking:

Avoid smoking to prevent gum related  problems.

4.Treat Underlying Medical Conditions:

Manage conditions like diabetes, leukemia, and other systemic conditions to prevent gingival symptoms.

5.Balanced Diet:

Ensure a diet rich in nutrients and vitamins to support overall health and improve immunity.

Conclusion:

Periodontitis is a severe condition that can cause irreversible damage to the tooth and surrounding tissues if not treated early. By understanding its causes, prevention, and treatment, we can prevent its progression and halt the disease to save our beautiful smile and maintain the efficiency of our teeth for a lifetime.

Request to Readers:

Thank you for reading today's blog post. If you have any queries, please let me know in the comment section. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned, please make an appointment with your dentist today to save your teeth from extraction.

References :

1. Carranza's Clinical Periodontology-Ebook: Third South Asia Edition,Chini Doraiswami Dwarakanath,

Elsevier.

2. Image credit: www.freepik.com.