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The hidden truth about periodontal disease: Why it's quietly destroying your teeth?
In modern society, periodontal disease is a common problem for adults. According to the classification of the American Academy of Periodontology, chronic periodontitis is one of seven types of periodontal disease. There is often no obvious pain in the early stages, which causes many patients to seek treatment only when the disease has progressed to a later stage. According to research, chronic periodontitis can lead to severe damage to periodontal tissue and even tooth loss. So where does this "invisible" threat come from?
Chronic periodontitis begins as gingivitis and may develop into chronic and aggressive periodontitis over time.
The causes and development of chronic periodontitis
The root cause of chronic periodontitis is the accumulation of dental plaque, a biofilm containing a variety of bacteria. Infection of the fibrous tissue triggers a chronic inflammatory response, which over time leads to the destruction of the alveolar bone and supporting tissues.
This ongoing inflammatory response will affect the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone, causing osteoporosis and tooth movement.
Risk factors
Many factors influence the development and severity of chronic periodontitis, including smoking, poor oral hygiene, genetic susceptibility and systemic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. These factors not only increase the risk of disease, but may also affect the course of the disease.
Clinical manifestations and diagnosis
Early-stage chronic periodontitis usually has mild symptoms and is not even taken seriously by patients. As the disease progresses, symptoms that may occur include:
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath
- The gums swell and recede, causing the teeth to appear longer
- Loose teeth and the formation of deep pockets between teeth
Periodontal disease is usually diagnosed through oral examination and X-ray examination, especially when measuring the depth of periodontal pockets and the loss of adhesion of the gums.
Treatment methods
Treatment methods for chronic periodontitis are mainly divided into two categories: non-surgical and surgical. Non-surgical treatments include:
- Root planing and scaling (SRP)
- Antibiotic treatment targeting microbial matter
Surgical treatments such as open flap decontamination mainly target deep periodontal pockets, which can more effectively clean the tooth roots and promote the regeneration of periodontal tissue.
Based on current research, effective oral hygiene habits and regular dental checkups are key to preventing chronic periodontitis.
The relationship between systemic health and periodontal disease
Chronic periodontitis not only affects oral health, but may also be closely related to systemic health problems. Studies have shown that patients with diabetes have a higher risk of chronic periodontitis, and there is a vicious cycle between the two. The worsening of periodontal disease will lead to difficulty in controlling blood sugar, and diabetes may aggravate the progression of periodontal disease.
Future research directions
As research continues to deepen, scientists hope to find more effective treatment strategies, including new biotechnology and gene therapy methods. These new approaches have the potential to provide more comprehensive management of periodontal disease and reduce the risk of disease progression and associated complications.
By understanding the cause, course, and systemic health impacts of chronic periodontitis, patients can better respond to this hidden health threat. So, is it time to pay attention to your oral health instead of waiting for pain to come before seeking help?
