WHY EARLY DETECTION OF 牙周病 MATTERS

Why Early Detection of 牙周病 Matters

Why Early Detection of 牙周病 Matters

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Periodontal disease, commonly known as 牙周病, is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and, if left untreated, can destroy the bone that supports your teeth. This condition is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults but is often preventable with proper oral hygiene and dental care.






What is 牙周病 (Periodontal Disease)?


The term 牙周病 refers to infections of the structures around the teeth, which include the gums, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone. In its early stage, known as gingivitis, the gums become swollen and may bleed easily. As it progresses into periodontitis, the inner layer of the gum and bone pull away from the teeth and form pockets that collect debris and become infected.






Causes of 牙周病


The primary cause of 牙周病 is plaque—a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. If plaque is not removed by daily brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which cannot be removed by brushing alone and requires professional cleaning.


Other contributing factors include:





  • Poor oral hygiene




  • Smoking or tobacco use




  • Diabetes




  • Genetic susceptibility




  • Stress




  • Certain medications that reduce saliva flow




  • Hormonal changes in females




  • Poor nutrition







Common Symptoms of 牙周病


Identifying 牙周病 early is crucial. Common signs and symptoms include:





  • Red, swollen, or bleeding gums




  • Persistent bad breath




  • Pain when chewing




  • Receding gums or longer appearing teeth




  • Loose or shifting teeth




  • Sensitive teeth




  • Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums







Diagnosing 牙周病


Dentists diagnose 牙周病 by:





  • Reviewing your medical history to identify risk factors




  • Examining your gums for signs of inflammation




  • Measuring the depth of the pockets between your gums and teeth




  • Taking dental X-rays to observe bone loss







Treatment Options for 牙周病


The treatment of 牙周病 depends on the severity of the condition:



1. Non-Surgical Treatments




  • Professional Cleaning: Removal of plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line.




  • Scaling and Root Planing: A deep-cleaning, nonsurgical procedure under local anesthesia where plaque and tartar are scraped away, and rough spots on tooth roots are smoothed.




2. Surgical Treatments




  • Flap Surgery (Pocket Reduction Surgery): Lifting back the gums to remove tartar deposits and then suturing them back.




  • Bone Grafts and Soft Tissue Grafts: Used to regenerate any bone or gum tissue lost due to 牙周病.




  • Guided Tissue Regeneration: Encourages regrowth of bone and gum tissue.







How to Prevent 牙周病


Preventing 牙周病 involves good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups:





  • Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste




  • Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth




  • Use mouthwash to help reduce plaque




  • Quit smoking




  • Visit your dentist at least twice a year for professional cleaning and exams







Conclusion


牙周病 is a common yet preventable dental condition that can lead to serious oral health problems if ignored. Maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine and seeking regular professional dental care are key steps in preventing and managing periodontal disease. If you notice any signs of 牙周病, it is important to consult with a dentist as early treatment can save your teeth and overall health.

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