Periodontitis, also known as periodontal gum disease, represents an infection of the anatomy in the mouth that shields the teeth. It can affect the gums, the periodontal ligament, the alveolar bone, or the root of the tooth. There are several reasons why someone develops periodontitis, along with specific symptoms that facilitates the diagnosis process.

What are the main symptoms of periodontitis?

1. Bleeding

Unidentified bleeding can occur when brushing, flossing, or eating. That is one of the most frequent symptoms of periodontitis. And it happens because of the toxins present in the mouth that trigger a bacterial infection and weaken the tissue.

2. Pain

Mostly, periodontitis causes a lot of unexplained pain, along with redness or swelling of the tissue. This is why it is so essential to deal with the infection before it managed to enter the bloodstream.

3. Gum Recession

In most situations, periodontitis causes longer-looking teeth. This is a result of the bacteria that affect the supporting tissue and make the teeth appear longer than usual.

4. Halitosis

Halitosis is a condition related to having bad breath. It can be one of the first signs of periodontitis because of the deeper gum pockets that can host all sorts of food particles and bacteria. This leads to a foul odor.

5. Purulent Oozing

If you experience pus oozing, you should surely seek medical advice. This purulent production between teeth is a clear sign of periodontal disease. Mostly, it is a result of your immune system trying to keep the bacterial infection at bay.

What are the significant causes of periodontitis?

The most recurrent cause of the periodontal disease is bacteria gathering in dental plaque. Usually, this bacterium is present in and around the teeth. The body can try to deal with this bacterium, which triggers inflammation and potential damage to the gums or periodontal ligament. A great way to prevent this problem is by brushing and flossing the teeth daily. Lack of proper oral hygiene is what triggers the development of periodontitis.

Another cause of periodontitis is gingivitis. Gingivitis appears when the teeth are unproperly cleaned, and tartar gathers. To deal with this, professional cleaning at a dentist is needed. If this tartar stays on the teeth and gums, it can lead to extensive damage to the gums. Besides, if gingivitis is not treated, it favors the appearance of periodontitis.

Of course, several lifestyle choices can make someone prone to developing periodontal disease. These include smoking, medication, or hormonal changes in women. Also, an essential part of periodontitis is the genetic predisposition of an individual.

For better oral health, it is always best to clean your teeth regularly. Moreover, frequent visits to your dentist can lower the risks of periodontitis, while it can make it easier to spot early signs.