Periodontitis
What is periodontitis?
Periodontitis is a progressive loss of the bone around the teeth. It is caused by bacteria found in the accumulation of tartar and dental plaque under the gum tissue. If left untreated, the teeth gradually begin to move and eventually fall out.
It is an often silent disease. In most cases, symptoms do not appear until the disease is advanced. Fortunately, your healthcare professional will be able to detect signs of the disease early on.
How to diagnose periodontal disease?
A simple technique is to measure the destruction of the supporting tissue around your teeth with a periodontal probe, we call it periodontal exam.
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1-2mm
3-4mm
5-6mm
7+mm
Normal
Beginning periodontitis
Moderate periodontitis
Severe periodontitis
Stages of periodontitis
Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontitis. Plaque builds up on the teeth and causes inflammation of the gums, which become swollen, red, and bleeding.
If the plaque is not removed, bacteria settle around the roots and destroy the bone. This is the stage of periodontitis that begins. Bone loss is irreversible. The gum peels off the teeth and forms periodontal pockets.
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When periodontitis reaches the advanced stage, dental abscesses occur and cause pain. The teeth move a lot and then have to be removed because it becomes painful to eat.
Health related risks
Studies have established links between periodontal disease and several health problems, including diabetes, respiratory problems and cardiovascular disease.
Treatment of periodontitis
Treatment for periodontitis begins with the removal of plaque, tartar, and bacteria from around the teeth. This treatment, called curettage, is generally carried out under local anesthesia as for fillings.
When treatment is complete, the gum tissue heals and reattaches to the teeth. Thus, the periodontal pockets disappear. You will then be able to properly clean the area around the teeth by brushing and flossing every day.