Periodontitis: understanding this painful dental inflammation

Do you experience pain when chewing, as if one tooth were higher than the others, or discomfort that persists for no apparent reason? These signs may reveal a specific, but still little-known, dental problem: periodontitis .

This is an inflammation of the ligament that connects the tooth to the jawbone . When irritated or infected, this ligament becomes painful and makes the tooth sensitive to the slightest pressure . The causes can vary, but appropriate treatment usually provides fairly quick relief. Let's take a closer look!

It corresponds to inflammation of the ligament that surrounds the tooth , also called the periodontal ligament. Imagine this ligament as a small natural shock absorber between the root of your tooth and the jawbone, which absorbs shocks when you chew.

When this ligament becomes inflamed, the tooth becomes very sensitive to the slightest pressure, even at rest, without any action being taken. And whether the tooth is vital or devitalized, periodontitis can occur suddenly or develop gradually, depending on its cause.

These terms are often confused, even though they do not mean the same thing.

• The desmodontium is the ligament that holds the tooth in place when it is healthy.

• Desmodontitis occurs when the periodontal ligament becomes inflamed.

• Dental arthritis is a bit outdated and rather vague: today, healthcare professionals rarely use it.

A root infection is often the primary cause. This can occur in several situations:

• A deep, untreated cavity that has reached the nerve of the tooth,

• An infection that persists after a tooth has been devitalized,

• A dental abscess that is starting or is not being properly drained.

The bacteria involved then trigger local inflammation , which generally causes sharp pain, especially when chewing.

Excessive or repeated pressure can also cause it, even in the absence of infection. Examples include:

• A filling or crown that is a little too high,

• A shock or trauma to the tooth,

• Bruxism, the habit of clenching or grinding one's teeth, often at night.

The ligament is then subjected to excessive stress, which eventually leads to inflammation .

Certain health conditions can promote its development or worsen existing inflammation. This is the case, for example:

• Certain chronic inflammatory diseases ,

• From advanced periodontitis (gum recession),

• From a weakened immune system .

The periodontal ligament then becomes more fragile and can react sharply to even slight aggressions.

Pain upon pressure is the most characteristic sign. It is most often triggered when you bite into something or chew . Here is what is most commonly felt:

• Clear suffering while eating,

• The impression that the tooth is slightly longer than the others,

• A feeling that she's moving a little , even slightly.

• A lingering sensitivity , even sometimes at rest.

• An acute, localized pain , but with nothing visible to the naked eye.

In more pronounced cases, the sharp, stabbing pain can become constant, like a dull thump that never stops.

A cavity is often betrayed by sensitivity to cold, heat , or sugar . In contrast, periodontal disease (desmodontitis) is primarily painful when pressure is applied to the tooth. The tricky part is that the tooth can appear perfectly healthy to the naked eye, which complicates diagnosis without a thorough examination.

During your appointment, the dentist will begin by listening to your symptoms and carefully examining the affected tooth . For example, pain when chewing is often a telltale sign. They will then perform several checks:

• He tests the tooth's sensitivity to pressure.

• He assesses whether she exhibits unusual mobility .

• He also inspects the state of the care already in place.

All these elements already give him a very good idea of ​​the situation.

An X-ray provides a precise image of the bone surrounding the tooth root, as well as the condition of the periodontal ligament. To refine the diagnosis, vitality tests can also be performed, which help determine the best treatment approach.

Treatment varies depending on the cause of your dental problem . Sometimes, a filling or crown simply needs to be adjusted. In other cases, a root canal may be necessary, an abscess may need to be drained, or a mouthguard may be required if you grind your teeth at night.

The key is to address the source of the problem, otherwise the inflammation is likely to linger.

To relieve your pain in the meantime, we can recommend appropriate painkillers , possibly prescription anti-inflammatories, and antiseptic mouthwashes if necessary. Also, try to protect the affected tooth for a few days.

If the cause is treated quickly, you should feel a marked improvement within a few days. Slight sensitivity may sometimes persist for a week or two, but this usually resolves itself.

Good oral hygiene is the first line of defense against infections that can affect the periodontal ligament. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day , regularly cleaning between your teeth , and regular checkups with your dentist.

It's also important to prevent factors that contribute to this inflammation . If you experience pain while chewing, it's best to consult a dentist without delay. Similarly, have any dental work that bothers you checked , address any bruxism (teeth grinding), and try not to clench your teeth when you're stressed.

Without treatment, the situation can worsen. Inflammation can cause persistent pain, allow the infection to spread, and even damage the bone around the tooth. Over time, the tooth can become loose and, in the worst-case scenario, it can be lost.

Periodontitis is painful, but it responds well to treatment if addressed promptly. Pain when chewing or the sensation that a tooth is too long should not be ignored. A proper diagnosis allows for treatment of the underlying cause, provides rapid relief, and helps preserve your teeth in the long term.