Healthy Fluids

Periodontitis is a gum disease that involves the inflammation of the soft tissue (gums) surrounding the teeth. Due to poor oral hygiene, bacteria that cause plaque and tartar breed below the gum line, causing the gums to pull away from the teeth. This causes pockets or spaces between the gums, and the teeth which eventually become infected. Over time, the connective tissue, and the bones that hold the teeth start to break down. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss.

Periodontitis can also increase the risk of heart diseases and stroke. Fortunately, this gum disease can be treated in different ways.

You have to visit a dentist first for proper diagnosis. When dentists near Dupont Circle acknowledge that you do have gum disease or periodontitis, you may try any of these options:

1. Tartar Removal

Your dentist will thoroughly remove calcified plaque (calculus), tartar, and other toxins that are deep-seated into the surface of the root. This process is known as root planing or scaling. Hand scaling or ultrasonic instruments are used for this process. In general, it causes little to no pain. In some cases, local anesthesia is administered. In some rare cases, a patient may need to undergo pain medication for a few days.

2. Oral Irrigator

Using an oral irrigator or a dental water jet is an effective way of removing plaque and dirt on the teeth and gums. This device streams water into the teeth to push away stubborn dirt and plaque, and helps keep your gums and teeth healthy.

3. Surgical Therapy

Surgical therapy is recommended when you have already undergone non-surgical therapies, and your periodontitis still persists. This procedure includes regeneration and repair of gingival and bony tissues, replacement of missing teeth, and putting in dental implants. Surgery is done to remove the pockets, restore attachments, provide a more conducive oral hygiene, and restore the patientâs normal function and aesthetics. It is done by a periodontist or a dentist that specializes in gum diseases. Local anesthesia is oftentimes administered, sometimes with conscious or intravenous sedation.

4. Oil Pulling

This method involves placing some oil (coconut, olive, sesame, or sunflower oil) in your mouth and swishing it for 15 to 20 minutes. You have to do this twice every day, once in the morning before eating anything, and again in the evening before going to sleep. You can either gargle with warm water or brush your teeth after the procedure.

Make sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft toothbrush to prevent bacterial buildup. You should continue to take care of your teeth to ensure proper oral health. Flossing your teeth regularly helps remove plaque in between your teeth, keeping the gums healthy and clean.