Periodontitis, also known as gum disease, is a set of inflammatory diseases affecting the tissues surrounding teeth. Periodontitis involves progressive loss of the alveolar bone around the teeth, and if left untreated, can lead to the loosening and subsequent loss of teeth. Its considered as the continuation of untreated gingivitis that progresses to periodontitis.
Symptoms of gingivitis :
- Hemorrhage from the gums during brushing
- Swelling of the gums
- Deep red color of the gums
- Bad breath
Symptoms of periodontitis :
- Mobility of the teeth
- Recession of the gums
- Deep red color of the gums
- Swelling of the gums
- Pus between the gums and the teeth
- Bad breath
- Dettached gums from teeth
Factors causing periodontitis :
- Bad oral hygiene (bacteria)
- Not controlled diabetes
- Smoking
- Stress
- Specific drugs
- Heredity
- Hormonal disorders
- Traumatic occlusion
- Bad restorations (not fitting crowns and bridge, fillings)
The treatment of periodontitis today can be done sugically or with the Dental Laser with the LANAP technique (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure). Executing properly the Dental Laser there is no need to for a surgical intervention (in the majority of cases) that is extremely painful and costly and can furthermore lead to recession of the gums and sensitivity of the teeth. With the dental laser excellent results can be succeded. The best advantage of it is its antibacterial effect in the periodontal pocket (area between the gums and teeth). It also offers removal of the inflammatory tissue and biostimulation of the diseased gums. Through biostimulation there is a much faster healing process and better regeneration of tissues. Finally a big advantage of the Dental Laser is the absence of pain after the treatment. The patients can function and work normally with no problems.