Periodontal Disease or Periodontitis
Periodontitis (pair-e-o-don-TI-tis) is a serious gum infection that destroys the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth. Periodontitis can cause tooth loss or worse, an increased risk of heart attack or stroke and other serious health problems.
Periodontitis is common but largely preventable. Periodontitis is usually the result of poor oral hygiene. Daily brushing and flossing and regular professional dental cleanings can greatly reduce your chance of developing periodontitis.
Signs and symptoms of periodontitis can include:
- Swollen gums
- Bright red or purplish gums
- Gums that feel tender when touched
- Gums that pull away from your teeth (recede), making your teeth look longer than normal
- New spaces developing between your teeth
- Pus between your teeth and gums
- Bad breath
- Bad taste in your mouth
- Loose teeth
A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
There are different types, or classes, of periodontitis. Chronic periodontitis is the most common class, affecting mostly adults, though children may be affected as well. Aggressive periodontitis usually begins in childhood or early adulthood and affects only 1 to 2 percent of the population.
Our team of caring professionals understand your anxiety with dentistry, especially when an unexpected emergency occurs. We will treat you with the utmost care and compassion from the beginning to the end of your treatment. Call Mahopac Dental Care, at 845-628-8196, for all of your dental needs.