Periodontitis is a serious gum disease that affects millions of people worldwide. In the past, diagnosis and treatment of periodontitis was difficult as the disease often had to be very advanced to be detected.

However, a new approach to detecting the disease early on has recently been developed.

What is periodontitis?

Periodontitis is a gum disease that occurs when the tissues and bones that support the teeth become infected. The disease is caused by bacteria that form on the teeth, leading to inflammation and tissue damage.

If left untreated, periodontitis can cause tooth loss and other serious health problems.

Traditional methods of diagnosis

In the past, diagnosis of periodontitis was done through a visual exam and measuring the depth of the pockets between the teeth and gums. Unfortunately, these methods could only detect the disease after it had progressed to a certain point.

This meant that treatment would often be more difficult and expensive.

The groundbreaking approach

The new approach to detecting periodontitis early on involves using a test called the OralRisk®. The test is simple and accurate, requiring only a sample of saliva from the patient.

The test measures the levels of specific enzymes in the saliva associated with periodontal disease, allowing for early detection of the disease.

The benefits of early detection

By detecting periodontitis early on, a patient can receive treatment before the disease progresses to a more advanced stage. This can lead to better outcomes and a reduced risk of tooth loss and other health issues associated with the disease.

Additionally, early detection can lead to less invasive and costly treatment options for the patient.

Getting tested

If you are concerned about periodontitis, talk to your dentist or periodontist about getting tested. The OralRisk® test is a simple and painless way to detect the disease early on, allowing for better treatment options and outcomes.

Treatment options

Depending on the severity of your periodontitis, your dentist or periodontist may recommend a range of treatment options. These may include scaling and root planing, medications, or surgery.

Prevention

The best way to prevent periodontitis is through good oral hygiene. This includes brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily, and regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and check-ups.

Additionally, avoiding tobacco use and maintaining a healthy diet can also reduce your risk of developing the disease.

Conclusion

Periodontitis is a serious gum disease that can lead to a range of health issues if left untreated. The new OralRisk® test offers a groundbreaking approach to early detection and treatment of the disease, leading to better outcomes for patients.

By practicing good oral hygiene and talking to your dentist or periodontist about getting tested, you can take steps to prevent and treat periodontitis.