Preventing and Treating Periodontitis At Home and with Professional Help

Periodontitis, also known as periodontal disease, represents a type of gum ailment stemming from a profound bacterial infection affecting the supportive structures encompassing the tooth. Its onset is typically triggered by the buildup of plaque and remnants of food particles on the tooth’s surfaces, primarily arising from subpar oral hygiene practices. Plaque constitutes a tacky film consisting of bacteria, and when not consistently removed, it serves as the catalyst for gum infection, which may progress to affect deeper tissues and the foundational bone structure.

Periodontitis stands as a persistent and enduring inflammatory condition of the oral cavity. Establishing and maintaining effective oral hygiene practices are essential cornerstones for managing and preventing this condition.

Let’s delve into the symptoms of periodontitis, its causes, and explore the strategies for both treatment and preemptive measures.

Causes of Periodontitis

Bacteria form sticky stuff called plaque on teeth. It’s the main reason for gum problems.

Cleaning teeth removes plaque, but it comes back in a day or so. Plaque that stays turns into hard tartar (or calculus). Tartar is tough to remove, and you can’t do it at home. You need a dentist’s help since plaque and tartar can harm teeth and nearby areas.

First, you might get gingivitis. It’s a swelling of gums around teeth, but it can go away. Should it persist, tiny gaps emerge between teeth and gums, becoming breeding grounds for bacterial colonization. As the body tries to fight tartar, toxins from bacteria can hurt the bone and tissue holding teeth. Teeth might become loose and fall out over time.

Symptoms of Periodontitis

Periodontal problems come with distinct signs that should prompt you to consult a dentist. Here are some of the frequently encountered symptoms:

• Painful, puffy, and red gums
• Gums that bleed when you chew, brush, or sometimes just touch them
• Teeth seeming larger as gums recede
• Lingering bad breath, despite thorough brushing
• Teeth slowly loosening in their sockets and the possibility of them falling out
• A constant unpleasant taste in your mouth

Periodontitis At Home Treatments

If you want to cure periodontitis at home, managing plaque buildup at home is crucial for minimizing the chances of gum disease. The American Dental Association (ADA) offers the following guidance:

• Brush your teeth for a full 2 minutes, twice a day, using a soft-bristle manual or electric toothbrush.
• Employ toothpaste with fluoride.
• Make certain to clean all areas of your teeth.
• Swap out your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months, or sooner if the bristles appear worn or damaged.
• Select a toothbrush endorsed by the ADA for added assurance.

Sharing toothbrushes is not recommended since it can facilitate the transmission of bacteria between individuals.

Additionally, a dentist can offer guidance on:

• Dental floss or floss sticks
• Interdental brushes
• Antiseptic mouthwash

When addressed in its early stages, home remedies can play a role in managing periodontitis effectively.

• Saltwater Rinses: Gargling with lukewarm salt water several times a day can alleviate gum inflammation. Additionally, it aids in dislodging food particles and diminishing the bacterial presence within the oral cavity.
• Oil Pulling: Oil pulling involves swishing about 2 teaspoons of oil in the mouth for roughly 20 to 30 minutes. This practice is known to diminish bacteria and plaque buildup. Coconut oil is a commonly chosen option for this purpose.
• Turmeric: Turmeric, a well-documented anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, can be a valuable ally in the fight against periodontitis. Incorporating turmeric into your daily dental regimen, such as brushing your teeth with it twice a day, or preparing a soothing paste by mixing it with a small amount of water and applying it to affected gums during periodontitis flare-ups, may offer relief and support oral health.
• Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil boasts antiseptic and antibacterial attributes. Incorporating a drop of tea tree oil into your regular toothpaste before brushing is beneficial for various dental concerns.

Professional Treatments

If you can’t treat periodontitis at home, you may need help from a dentist. Once a dentist has professionally diagnosed periodontitis, it necessitates treatment, often involving multiple appointments. The key goal in periodontitis management involves eradicating all traces of plaque and bacterial accumulation around the gums and tooth surfaces. The treatment strategy often depends on the seriousness of the periodontal ailment. Once your gums are healed, you’re allowed to get veneers.

Mild Periodontitis: Usually, mild cases of periodontitis can be managed through thorough cleanings administered by your dentist or dental hygienist. This process involves two key steps: scaling and root planing. Scaling removes plaque from tooth surfaces and beneath the gum line, while root planing eliminates calculus and smooths root surfaces to deter plaque and bacteria from adhering. Successful treatment of mild periodontitis also requires diligent at-home oral hygiene maintenance.

Moderate Periodontitis: Moderate periodontitis may necessitate multiple scaling and root planing sessions until the gums have fully healed and reattached to the teeth. In cases where traditional cleaning methods prove insufficient, your dentist might recommend surgical intervention. Surgical approaches could involve reshaping the gums to eliminate periodontal pockets prone to plaque buildup or graft surgeries to aid in bone regeneration, which may have been compromised due to periodontal disease.

Severe Periodontitis: Severe periodontitis typically demands surgical treatment, especially when tooth loss becomes a genuine concern. Flap surgery is performed to address gum recession, while bone graft procedures may be necessary in areas where bone loss has occurred. If teeth have become excessively loose, your dentist might temporarily stabilize them with splints to enhance stability.

Professional and At Home Periodontitis Treatment Solutions for Better Oral Hygiene

Take charge of your oral health by understanding and addressing periodontitis. This gum disease, fueled by bacterial infection and plaque buildup, can be managed and prevented with proper home care, including regular brushing, flossing, and mouthwash use. Early symptoms should not be ignored. Consult a dentist for professional guidance and treatments tailored to the severity of your condition, from scaling and root planing for mild cases to surgical interventions for severe periodontitis. Remember, your commitment to good oral hygiene and proactive care can safeguard your smile and overall well-being.