How common is periodontitis?

The prevalence of periodontal (gum) disease continues to be an important public health problem in the United States as 2 in 5 adults are affected by some form of this disease.

What percentage of population has periodontal disease?

The study showed various rates of gum disease between different groups. The CDC's analysis showed that 47.2 percent of Americans, totaling 64.7 million people, have gum disease that could be characterized as mild, moderate or severe. In adults who are 65 or older, the rate of gum disease rises to 70.1 percent.

Should I be worried if I have periodontitis?

Periodontitis is a severe gum infection that can lead to tooth loss and other serious health complications. Periodontitis (per-e-o-don-TIE-tis), also called gum disease, is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and, without treatment, can destroy the bone that supports your teeth.

How many years does it take to get periodontitis?

Over time, untreated gingivitis can develop into periodontitis. So, how long does it take for gum disease to develop? One study found that if you're starting from level 1 gingivitis, it takes an average of 66.8 weeks, which is a little over 15 months, to develop into periodontitis.

Can teeth be saved with periodontal disease?

Saving teeth from periodontal disease is possible if you detect the signs and symptoms early or regularly visit your dentist for cleanings and exams. Let the condition progress unhindered, and tooth loss should be considered as an eventuality.

Periodontitis and its influence on health - How is periodontal disease treated? ©

Will brushing teeth cure periodontitis?

Many of our patients wonder if their early-stage periodontal disease will go away with regular oral hygiene; however, this is how you prevent it from developing. If you are already exhibiting signs of periodontal disease, you need a deep cleaning from our dental hygiene team to clean your teeth and gums best.

How do dentist get rid of periodontitis?

If you have advanced periodontitis, treatment may require dental surgery, such as: Flap surgery (pocket reduction surgery). Your periodontist makes tiny incisions in your gum so that a section of gum tissue can be lifted back, exposing the roots for more effective scaling and root planing.

How fast does periodontitis spread?

The progression of periodontal disease is slow but steady. It only takes four days for plaque to reach its maximum extent, so you'll be able to physically see signs of gingivitis on day 5. Advanced stages of this disease can be seen in as little as a few weeks if you have not tried to reverse the gingivitis.

Can periodontitis happen suddenly?

Periodontal disease does not happen overnight but over time. There are four periodontal disease stages and they develop at different times. It's important to note each one so you can receive proper treatment.

Does periodontitis ever go away?

Reversing Gum Disease

Periodontitis can't be reversed, only slowed down, while gingivitis can be reversed. This is why it's important to catch it in its early stages and prevent it from moving on to periodontitis.

What age do most people get periodontitis?

Can early periodontitis be stopped?

Periodontitis can be stopped if caught and treated early enough. Treatment is typically very successful. If you have periodontitis, regular follow-ups with a dentist are essential to ensure that the disease doesn't continue.

Can you get periodontitis in your 20s?

The onset of periodontal disease can often begin long before a person reaches retirement age. In the earlier stages, many patients in their 20s may not experience symptoms, which can lead to putting off treatment for gum disease, as well as complications in other areas, such as pregnancy.

Why periodontal disease is a silent killer?

If not treated, it leads to gum and bone recession, bad breath and tooth loss. The disease can be symptom-free as well and that is why it is also called the 'Silent Killer'. As a result of the 'Silent Killer' the remaining teeth have to be extracted as there has bone left that could hold them.

Who is more prone to periodontal disease?

Studies indicate that older people have the highest rates of periodontal disease. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that over 70% of Americans 65 and older have some form of gum disease.

Why is periodontitis not curable?

Modern treatments for the disease are often related to prevention and management rather than providing a cure. The only way to fully get rid of periodontal disease is to extract the infection at its source by extracting the teeth. The bacteria cannot live, so the periodontal disease leaves the body.

Can periodontitis go into remission?

Your periodontal disease will always need management, but can go into remission with appropriate treatment and the following practices: Brush at least twice a day, for two minutes. Floss at least once a day. Avoid smoking cigarettes.

Can periodontitis change your face?

The muscles surrounding the mouth may weaken, resulting in wrinkles or a more pronounced upper lip. Advanced periodontal disease can affect the attachments in the lower jaw muscles, making the tissue sag, which can lead to a “witch's chin” or jowls.

Can antibiotics cure periodontitis?

Periodontal disease has its roots in infections of the gum tissue caused by bacteria on the surface of your teeth. If left untreated, it can cause tissue loss as well as tooth loss. However, like many types of infection, periodontal disease can be effectively treated with antibiotics.

Can you stop periodontitis getting worse?

Advanced gum disease, also called periodontal disease, cannot be reversed. However, our dentists are able to mitigate the damaging effects of periodontal disease through scaling and root planing. Periodontal treatment can help you avoid some of the more serious side effects, such as receding gums and tooth loss.

How do you know if periodontitis is advanced?

Advanced Periodontal Disease

When this occurs, you find that your teeth become loose, and abscesses may form. Your gums will become more inflamed as well, and you might find it difficult to eat, as chewing will become painful. You may also experience severe halitosis, and your risk of tooth loss will increase.

Can teeth be replaced after periodontitis?

The simple answer is no. You need healthy, strong gums to get a dental implant. Like we mentioned before, gum disease weakens and dissolves this tissue and bone. So even after you've treated the disease, your gum tissue and jawbone may not be strong enough to support an implant.

Is periodontal treatment worth it?

Periodontal treatment is very important. It does prevent tooth loss, which can be caused by periodontitis. This treatment also prevents other issues caused by periodontitis, like heart attack risks. You should talk to your dentist if you suspect periodontitis.

How painful is periodontal treatment?

The short answer is no, the procedure is not painful. You will experience discomfort upon completion but the actual process can be completed with the administration of a local anesthetic to the soft tissue to minimize any unpleasant feelings during the process.

Does water flossing help periodontitis?

Dentists also recommend Water Flossing as a gentle and effective way to continue to treat your periodontal disease at home: Use a Water Flosser at least daily. Water Flossing is easier on the gums and 29 percent more effective at removing plaque than string flossing.