Periodontal Disease (Periodontitis)

Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease of the tissues that support the teeth: the gums, periodontal ligament, cementum and alveolar bone. It ranges from gingivitis, where only the gums are inflamed and the damage is reversible, to periodontitis, where the attachment between tooth and bone is progressively lost.

Why It Matters

Periodontitis is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults, and it is often painless until it is advanced. Bleeding gums are usually the first sign. Periodontitis is also associated with general health conditions, particularly diabetes, where each condition can make the other harder to control.

Clinical Details

• Cause: Bacterial plaque (biofilm) at and below the gum line triggers an inflammatory response. Smoking, poorly controlled diabetes, genetic susceptibility and some medications increase the risk.
• Signs: Bleeding when brushing, red or swollen gums, persistent bad breath, gum recession, and teeth that become loose or drift.
• Diagnosis: Measuring periodontal pockets and attachment loss with a probe, checking for bleeding, and X-rays to assess bone levels. Periodontitis is described by stage (severity) and grade (rate of progression).
• Treatment: Improved home care and risk-factor control, followed by professional cleaning below the gum line (deep cleaning). Deep pockets that persist may need periodontal surgery.
• Maintenance: Regular supportive periodontal care is needed long term, because the disease can recur if plaque control lapses.

FAQ

What is the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis?

Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums only and can be reversed with good plaque control. Periodontitis involves loss of the ligament and bone that hold the teeth, which is permanent.

Can periodontal disease be cured?

Gingivitis can be cured. Periodontitis can be controlled and kept stable with treatment and regular maintenance, but the bone already lost does not regenerate by itself.

Can I have dental implants if I have gum disease?

Active gum disease needs to be treated and stable before dental implants are placed. A history of periodontitis also raises the risk of peri-implantitis, so ongoing maintenance is important.