Periodontitis shows very few signs in the early stages so many people do not realize that they have a problem.
Periodontal diseases do not affect only adults, they can also be found in adolescents and children. Periodontitis, or gum disease, is a group of inflammatory and infectious diseases which affect the tissues around the teeth. It is caused by microorganisms which settle down on the tooth’s surface and the destructive immune response to combat them. The disease can be diagnosed by inspecting the soft gum tissues surrounding the teeth and evaluating the X-ray film of the teeth.
Research shows that younger people tend to develop severe types of gingivitis. Children and adolescents with immune deficiencies and type 1 diabetes are more susceptible to the disease.
1. Chronic Gingivitis
Gingivitis is a type of periodontal disease. If it is not treated in time it can develop into periodontitis. If an adolescent complains about bleeding, redness or swelling of the gums the parents can presume that he is suffering from chronic gingivitis. They should consult a St. Louis pediatric dentist immediately.
2. Aggressive and/or Chronic Periodontitis
Earlier it was known as adult periodontitis. Now the word adult has been replaced by chronic because the disease can occur in the early teenage years and keep growing throughout the person’s teens. Chronic and aggressive periodontitis affects the incisors and the first molars. Its most important characteristic is bone loss. It is interesting to note that minimal dental plaque can be seen when the teeth of a patient suffering from this disease are examined.
3. Generalized Aggressive and Chronic Periodontal Disease
The characteristics of this type of periodontal disease are quite similar to the chronic and aggressive type. But this is a more severe form of the disease and affects the whole mouth. Inflamed gums, major calculus and plaque accumulation are some of the symptoms of the disease.
When a person is affected by a severe form of the periodontal disease, his gum structure may undergo a change. The gums may become weak and the teeth may become loose. Sometimes they may even fall out.
Preventive Measures
Prevention is key and treatment can be successful if the disease is diagnosed in the early stages. So the St. Louis pediatric dentist must thoroughly examine the adolescent’s teeth twice a year.
Innumerable bacteria are present in the mouth. Some of them are essential for the digestion of food. If the bacteria settle down in the cavities or the open gum pockets they can cause diseases. Proper oral hygiene is important for a healthy mouth which is free from painful diseases.
A person should brush his teeth at least twice every day. He should direct the bristles of the toothbrush underneath the gum line. This will prevent the formation of subgingival plaque.
In addition, regular flossing and using an antiseptic mouthwash are important.
Periodontitis shows very few signs in the early stages so many people do not realize that they have a periodontal disease. By the time they visit the dentist the disease is already in an advanced stage. So, timely diagnosis and treatment is important.
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