Prevention of periodontal disease
Periodontal disease is a common condition that can lead to serious oral health problems such as loosening of the teeth, infections, and chronic inflammation. To prevent these diseases, good oral hygiene and regular checkups are essential.
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is caused by bacterial infections that affect and destroy the supporting tissues around one or more teeth. These conditions develop slowly over several years and are often caused by bacteria stagnating in dental plaque. Over time, this plaque generates an inflammatory reaction that leads to the progressive deterioration of the gums and underlying bone: this is called “tooth loss.”
Periodontal diseases such as gingivitis or periodontitis can affect one or more teeth and, in more serious cases, the entire set of teeth. These diseases generally appear around the age of 30 and appear gradually, with symptoms often being relatively mild at first. More rarely, such diseases can affect younger people: this is called juvenile periodontitis.
Without proper treatment, these diseases can only worsen. Once detected, periodontitis can, for example, be stabilized through rigorous oral hygiene and regular care. Regular care is essential because relapses can occur if hygiene care is slackened. Prevention and regular monitoring are therefore essential to control this condition.
How does a periodontal treatment session take place?
First, a clinical check-up is carried out to assess the condition of the gingival tissues (gums). The presence of dental plaque or tartar will be sought at this stage as well as any periodontal pockets or recessions (tartar pockets under the gum). This preliminary examination allows for an assessment of the situation and will ultimately allow for comparison of the evolution of the situation during future assessments.
During the first treatment session, a deep cleaning is performed to thoroughly remove tartar. A thorough cleaning of the dental surfaces is also performed during each session to eliminate bacterial buildup that causes inflammation. This session generally does not require anesthesia. At the same time, oral hygiene advice is provided to optimize daily routines and space out procedures as much as possible.
Several sessions can be scheduled at regular intervals to ensure rigorous monitoring. The frequency of treatment is adapted for each patient, depending on the patient’s oral health and general health. People suffering from chronic diseases such as diabetes, for example, are monitored more regularly because this disease affects the stability of periodontal tissue.
In fact, a detailed assessment of the periodontal condition is carried out at regular intervals, generally every two years, in order to detect any unfavorable developments and adapt care accordingly.
What is the recommended frequency for maintenance sessions?
For patients with periodontal disease, the frequency of care is generally between two and four times per year. This follow-up depends on several factors specific to each patient and is based on the initial clinical examination.