Do You Recognise Inflamed, Bleeding Gums or Loose Teeth?
Are you suffering from inflamed gums that bleed easily when brushing? Do you notice your teeth becoming looser or your gums receding? These could be signs of periodontitis, a severe periodontal gum disease. Periodontitis is more than just gum inflammation; it also affects the underlying jawbone and can lead to tooth loss. At Paro Haarlem, your specialist periodontist in Haarlem, we offer effective treatments to stop periodontitis and preserve your teeth. We also provide solutions for missing teeth, such as dental implants.
What Exactly is Periodontitis? (The Difference from Gingivitis)
Gum disease often starts with gingivitis: a superficial inflammation of the gum line, usually caused by dental plaque. Symptoms include red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Gingivitis is reversible with good oral hygiene.
However, if gingivitis remains untreated, the inflammation can spread to the deeper supporting tissues, including the jawbone. This is when we speak of periodontitis. With periodontitis, bacteria not only break down the gums but also the fibrous tissue and the jawbone that hold your teeth in place. This leads to pocket formation (spaces between the tooth and gum) and eventually to loose teeth and potential tooth loss.
Symptoms of Periodontitis: What Should You Look Out For?
Periodontitis often develops insidiously and painlessly in the beginning. Pay attention to the following signs:
- Red, swollen, or painful gums.
- Bleeding gums (when brushing, flossing, or even spontaneously).
- Receding gums (teeth appear longer).
- Loose teeth or teeth that are changing position.
- Pain when chewing.
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis) or a bad taste in your mouth.
- Pus formation between teeth and gums.
Causes and Risk Factors of Periodontitis
The main cause of this periodontal disease is bacterial dental plaque. However, various factors increase the risk or influence its severity:
- Inadequate oral hygiene.
- Smoking: Reduces blood flow and defense mechanisms in the gums.
- Genetic predisposition.
- Stress.
- Certain diseases: Diabetes Mellitus, autoimmune diseases.
- Medication use: Some medications affect the gums.
Consequences of Untreated Periodontitis
Periodontitis is a serious gum disease with potentially significant consequences:
- Loss of teeth: Due to jawbone resorption, teeth lose their support.
- Bad breath.
- Pain and discomfort.
- Aesthetic problems: Receding gums, changing tooth position.
- Impact on general health: Research shows links between periodontitis and cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and premature birth.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Periodontitis at Paro Haarlem
Early diagnosis is crucial. At Paro Haarlem, we diagnose periodontitis by:
- Pocket measurement: Using a periodontal probe, we measure the space between the tooth and gum.
- Gum assessment: We look for redness, swelling, and bleeding.
- X-rays: To assess the extent of jawbone loss.
The treatment for periodontitis aims to stop the inflammation and prevent further destruction. This includes:
- Initial Periodontal Therapy: Thorough professional cleaning of the root surfaces under the gums (scaling and root planing), often under local anaesthesia. Plaque and calculus are removed from the pockets. Comprehensive oral hygiene instruction is an essential component.
- Re-evaluation: After a few months, we assess the results of the initial treatment.
- Possible Further Treatment: If results are insufficient, a surgical procedure (flap surgery) may be necessary to clean and correct deeper pockets.
- Maintenance Phase: Lifelong regular check-ups and professional cleaning by the dentist, dental hygienist, or periodontist are necessary to keep periodontitis under control.
Why Choose Paro Haarlem for Your Periodontitis and Implant Treatment?
- Specialised Care: Our periodontists are experts in diagnosing and treating complex periodontal diseases and in placing dental implants.
- Experience and Knowledge: Up-to-date knowledge and modern treatment techniques for both gum disease and tooth replacement.
- Personalised Treatment Plan: Tailored to your specific situation and needs, whether it's managing periodontitis or planning for dental implants.
- Collaboration: Close cooperation with your own dentist.
- Comprehensive Solutions: From saving your natural teeth to replacing missing teeth with durable dental implants.
- Location Haarlem: Your specialist for gum problems and dental implants in the region.
Prevent Tooth Loss & Restore Your Smile: Take Action Today!
Do you recognise symptoms of gingivitis or periodontitis, or are you considering dental implants for missing teeth? Don't wait until it's too late. Timely diagnosis and treatment by a specialist periodontist can make the difference between saving or losing your teeth, and restoring your smile with confidence. Contact Paro Haarlem for a consultation.
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