Periodontitis is the leading cause of premature tooth loss in adults and the main culprit behind premature tooth aging. Periodontal disease may be more serious and prevalent than many realize. According to the Fourth National Oral Health Epidemiological Survey, the incidence of periodontal disease among adults in my country is 86%. To better understand it, we will examine how periodontal disease develops and how it can be prevented.
How Does Periodontal Disease Develop?
The initiating factor of periodontal disease is dental plaque. There are a variety of bacteria in dental plaque and their metabolites, which are the source factors that lead to the occurrence or aggravation of diseases in various bodily systems. We can think of periodontitis as a key. When the host's defense function is not perfect, it may break through the doors of various systems in the body.
In addition, if we compare a tooth to a tree, periodontal disease is the soil change and loss around the roots. Without soil support, the teeth can become loose and fall out. Bacteria attach to the teeth or oral soft tissues to form plaque. If they are not cleaned at this time, they will continue to develop and produce many toxic factors, causing gingival redness, bleeding, and destruction of periodontal ligaments. If the teeth are not cleaned for a long time, the calculus will further calcify and harden, irritating the gums and causing the alveolar bone supporting the teeth to be destroyed and resorbed. This will eventually lead to the loosening and loss of the teeth.
How Can We Prevent Periodontal Disease?
Luckily, periodontal disease is preventable. Here are four ways to help prevent the onset of periodontal disease:
1.Brush your teeth at least twice in the morning and evening, and rinse your mouth after meals.
2.Efficiently use floss or an irrigator.
3.Regularly go to dental check-upsto check the oral cavity and remove dental calculus.
4.Make healthier lifestyle choices, such as not smoking, eating a well-balanced diet, and receiving plenty of rest.
Key Takeaway
Periodontal disease occurs due to oral neglect and poor oral hygiene practices. However, periodontal disease is preventable through thorough brushing and flossing, regular dental check-ups, and healthy lifestyle choices.
*Cover image from Freepik@brgfx, we will delete it if constitutes infringement *
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