Periodontitis, the more advanced form of gum disease, is a common problem all over the world. While gingivitis, the earlier form, can be tackled and even reversed at home, the same isn't true of periodontitis. If you're puzzled by this and want to know why you have to go to a dentist to get help with this condition, then here's what you should know.

Tartar

One of the main reasons why you can't get rid of periodontitis at home is because of tartar build-up.

As you likely know, tartar is the hardened, solidified form of plaque. Plaque can readily be cleaned away by flossing and brushing, but the same can't be said for tartar.

The problem here is that tartar is inflammatory and can induce gum disease. Without being able to get rid of it, your gums will stay chronically inflamed, which can lead to bleeding, soreness, swelling, and other symptoms of periodontitis.

Infection

Another problem is that periodontitis isn't just a mild gum condition. It's a severe infection in the gums.

The body does have the capability of fighting off some infections on its own, but as you likely know, antibiotics are often a must in order to give the body a fighting chance. This is why antibiotics are often prescribed by dentists to treat gum disease after a thorough cleaning.

However, the most basic reason you need to see a dentist is that your gums need to be thoroughly cleaned and potentially drained of infectious material in order to give your body a chance to beat the disease. As long as there is a bacterial overgrowth and tartar, the likelihood of your body defeating gum disease on its own is practically non-existent.

Tissue Decay

Unfortunately, some people with periodontitis will experience an unfortunate side effect of the condition. Namely, that the gums themselves will start to decay.

When tissue decays, it's usually due to long-term infection that starts killing off healthy cells. Once the gums start to decay, the damaged tissue has to be removed. Otherwise, it will make the remaining healthy tissue sick. Even if you had a way of completely cleaning your teeth and gums at home of tartar and bacteria, as long as this damaged tissue remains, the infection can't be quelled.

Dental disease is something that almost always requires the attention of a dentist. If you've been trying to take care of your gums at home without any improvement, it's time to seek help from a professional.

For more information, contact a dentist like Dr. Jon Douglas Lesan, DDS, RpH, PA.