Periodontitis

Specialized Gum Care for a Healthy Smile

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a serious inflammatory disease that affects the gums and surrounding tissues, leading to bone loss and the gradual loosening of teeth. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent severe complications and maintain optimal oral health.

What Is Periodontitis?

Periodontitis is an advanced stage of gingivitis, occurring when inflammation spreads from the gums to the supporting structures of the teeth, such as the bones and ligaments. This inflammation is usually caused by the buildup of bacterial plaque and tartar, leading to the destruction of the tissues that support the teeth.

Symptoms of Periodontitis

Symptoms of periodontitis vary from person to person, but the most common include:
  • Bleeding gums while brushing
  • Bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth
  • Receding gums pulling away from the teeth
  • Loose or shifting teeth
  • Tooth sensitivity or pain

Periodontitis Treatment: Options and Cost

The treatment of periodontitis involves various methods depending on the severity of the condition. Some of the most common treatments include:

Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing): A procedure that removes plaque and tartar from the teeth and their roots. This treatment helps reduce inflammation and restore the affected tissues.

Antibiotic Therapy for Periodontitis: Antibiotics may be prescribed alongside deep cleaning to help eliminate bacteria responsible for the inflammation.

Laser Treatment: A modern, minimally invasive technique that uses laser technology to remove infected tissue and reduce inflammation. This method is painless, speeds up recovery time, but is more expensive than traditional treatments.

Surgical Treatment: In cases of severe or advanced periodontitis, surgical intervention may be necessary to restore damaged tissues.

The cost of treatment depends on the type and severity of periodontitis, as well as the chosen treatment method. It is essential to discuss your options with your dentist to determine the best solution for your condition.

Home Treatment for Periodontitis

Many people look for home remedies for periodontitis, such as olive oil or other natural treatments. While daily oral care with proper brushing and flossing is essential for preventing periodontitis, natural remedies cannot replace professional dental care. Home treatments may provide temporary symptom relief, but they do not eliminate the inflammation or stop disease progression. Seeking professional treatment is necessary to effectively manage periodontitis.

Periodontitis Treatment: Before and After

When applied correctly and in time, periodontitis treatment can produce remarkable results. Before treatment, gums may appear swollen, bleed easily, and teeth may feel loose. After treatment, inflammation decreases, gums regain their health, and tooth stability improves, significantly enhancing oral health and comfort.

Stages and Progression of Periodontitis

Periodontitis progresses through several stages, beginning with gingivitis and potentially leading to severe periodontitis if left untreated. The stages include:

  • Gingivitis: Inflammation of the gums without bone damage.
  • Early Periodontitis: Mild damage to the tissues surrounding the teeth.
  • Advanced Periodontitis: Severe tissue damage and bone loss.
  • Severe Periodontitis: Significant bone loss and possible tooth loss.

Treatment of Advanced Periodontitis

Advanced periodontitis requires intensive treatment, including surgical procedures to restore damaged tissues. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent tooth loss and significantly improve the patient’s quality of life.

Periodontitis and Antibiotics: When Are They Necessary?

The use of antibiotics may be required in cases of severe inflammation, especially when periodontitis has spread to the surrounding tissues. Antibiotics help eliminate bacteria responsible for the infection, but they cannot replace professional deep cleaning and scaling performed by a dentist.

Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontitis

Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease that affects the gums and the supporting structures of the teeth, leading to bone loss and potential loosening or loss of teeth if not treated in time.

The most common symptoms include bleeding gums, bad breath, receding gums pulling away from the teeth, pain, and loose teeth.

Treatment includes deep cleaning (scaling and root planing), antibiotics to reduce bacteria, and laser treatments or surgical procedures for more advanced cases.
The cost varies depending on the severity of the condition and the chosen treatment method, such as deep cleaning, laser therapy, or surgery.
While natural remedies like olive oil may provide temporary relief, professional dental treatment is essential for effectively managing periodontitis.
Gingivitis is the initial stage of gum inflammation, while periodontitis is the advanced form, causing bone and tissue destruction around the teeth.
Periodontitis progresses from gingivitis to early, advanced, and severe stages, with increasing bone loss and tooth mobility.
Recovery time depends on the severity of the condition and the type of treatment, with laser treatments generally having a shorter recovery time compared to surgical procedures.

The Dental Center is located in Argyroupoli, south of Athens, serving the neighboring areas of Elliniko, Alimos, Glyfada, Ilioupoli, and Voula.