What is bacterial periodontitis? What causes it? Treatment
What is bacterial periodontitis?
Is an inflammation of the gums and tissues surrounding the teeth, caused by the accumulation and overgrowth of bacteria in the mouth. When bacteria accumulate in plaque (a white or yellowish translucent layer on the surface of teeth and under the gum line), they produce harmful substances and stimulate an inflammatory response from the body. As a result, the gums become swollen, red, and may bleed more easily.


Causes of bacterial periodontitis
The main cause of bacterial periodontitis is the accumulation of bacteria in the mouth, especially in plaque – a white or yellowish translucent film containing bacteria, proteins and other organic substances. Here are some specific causes:
Plaque: Plaque is an ideal environment for bacteria to grow and reproduce. When plaque is not removed through proper oral hygiene, it can build up and create conditions for bacteria that cause periodontitis.
Oral bacteria: Many types of bacteria exist in the mouth, but some, such as Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis, have the potential to cause periodontitis when they overgrow.
Poor oral hygiene habits: Not brushing properly or not flossing can cause plaque and bacteria to build up and cause periodontitis.
Genetics: Although not a primary cause, genetics may also play a role in some people’s susceptibility to bacteria and their inflammatory response.
Diet and lifestyle habits: An unbalanced diet or poor chewing habits can increase the risk of periodontitis by creating conditions for bacteria to grow and cause periodontitis.
Smoking: Smoking not only increases your risk of oral health problems, it also reduces your body’s ability to fight bacteria.
In summary, bacterial periodontitis usually stems from an overgrowth of oral bacteria and plaque, along with other factors such as poor oral hygiene habits and lifestyle.
Treatment
Bacterial periodontitis requires thorough treatment to stop the growth of bacteria and reduce inflammation. Here are some common treatments:
Proper oral hygiene: The most important thing in treating periodontitis is maintaining good oral hygiene. You need to brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss, and use an antibacterial mouthwash to remove plaque and bacteria.
Treating tooth decay: If periodontitis is caused by dental problems such as tooth decay, you need to treat the tooth decay thoroughly to eliminate the root cause of the problem.
Professional Cleaning: Visit your dentist for a professional cleaning and regular gum checkups. Your dentist can remove plaque and bacteria that you can’t remove with your daily oral hygiene.
Use of antibiotics: In severe cases, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to reduce the bacteria that cause periodontitis.
Complex dental treatment: In more severe cases, you may need complex dental treatment such as root planing, gum surgery, or laser treatment to treat periodontitis.
Lifestyle changes: Healthy lifestyle adjustments include limiting sugar and sweet foods, stopping smoking, and maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet.
Use anti-inflammatory medications: Your doctor may recommend anti-inflammatory medications such as dexamethasone to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms.
Remember that treating bacterial periodontitis takes time and patience. Follow your doctor’s instructions and visit your dentist regularly to maintain good gum and oral health.


Ways to prevent this disease
To prevent bacterial periodontitis, you need to practice good oral hygiene and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Here are some ways you can do that:
Brush your teeth properly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day for at least two minutes each time. Use a soft toothbrush and move it in a circular motion to remove plaque and bacteria.
Floss: Use dental floss or dental thread at least once a day to remove plaque and food between teeth.
Use an antibacterial mouthwash: Use an antibacterial mouthwash that contains fluoride to help eliminate bacteria and reduce the risk of periodontitis.
Limit sugar and sugary foods: Bacteria in the mouth love to thrive in a sugary environment. Limit your intake of sugar and sweet foods to reduce your risk of periodontal disease.
Avoid smoking: Smoking not only increases your risk of oral health problems, it also reduces your body’s ability to fight bacteria.
Treat dental problems early: If you have any signs of periodontitis or other oral health problems, visit your dentist for specific treatment and guidance.
Regular dental visits: Regular dental treatments and professional cleanings can help remove plaque and bacteria that you can’t get rid of with daily oral hygiene.
By following these precautions, you can reduce your risk of bacterial periodontitis and maintain good oral health.
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