Peridontitis: prevention is crucial

We all know how important it is to look after ourselves. Whether we are choosing the best product for our skin, a treatment to prevent hair loss, or a wellness program to stay fit and healthy as long as possible, we look for what best fits our needs.

Aging is a natural part of life. Through the years our experience grows and we learn how precious our time is and become more aware of the importance of good healthy choices.

Most people know, or at least think they know, which habits, foods and products help them to maintain healthy skin, stay in good shape, and maintain a strong and flexible body.

Even so, very few people have an extensive knowledge about teeth and gums and their age related issues.

Tooth decay and gum disease are the most common issues endangering oral health, and they share a often underestimated feature: they can get worse without any symptoms.

New techniques and materials allow dentists to restore badly decayed teeth. However, a neglected gum disease in its final stages may result in teeth loss, despite all efforts by both the clinician and the patient. So prevention is the best winning strategy, and also the cheapest one.

The dentist will need to take an X-ray to ascertain the presence or absence of caries while ensuring that the gum and bone that support the teeth are in good condition. He will use an instrument called a periodontal probe.

It only takes a few minutes, and it proceeds by placing it between the tooth and the gum and measuring the depth of the gingival sulcus.

The periodontal survey is necessary during the first visit, it serves to have a complete and detailed picture of your oral condition.

Normally the probe does not go deeper than 3 millimeters, if the value is greater it means that there is a periodontal pocket present. Now the periodontist can, with data on hand, really understand whether gingivitis or gum disease is present.

A complete oral analysis must always be supported by periodontal surveys and x-ray examinations.

Periodontitis: what are the symptoms to look out for?

1. Inflamed gums: this is a warning sign for periodontitis, commonly called pyorrhoea
   
2. Bleeding Gums: you may notice this while brushing your teeth or, in severe cases, finding blood stains on your pillow in the morning
   
3. Swollen and painful gums: they can be itchy or expel pus
   
4. Halitosis, or bad breath that others smell while chatting. This has various causes, including periodontal disease
   
5. Loose Teeth: in adults, this can be a symptom of gum disease that is already at an advanced level

How to prevent periodontitis

Choose a clinic that specialises in paradontology: rely on those who have the skills to best treat this disease that can limit your quality of life, your oral health and social relationships.

Seeing the dentist regularly is absolutely required for oral health, and skipping appointments only means that you are putting yourself at risk of developing very serious dental issues down the track.

Taking the time to see a dentist regularly, and not just occasionally, is the only way to maintain a healthy mouth, protected from the risks that age and lack of awareness of the problem can bring.