What is Periodontitis?
Periodontitis is an advanced form of gum disease that:
✔️ Damages gums and soft tissues
✔️ Destroys the bone supporting teeth if untreated
✔️ Develops from untreated gingivitis
✔️ Can lead to tooth loss and systemic health issues
Key Symptoms:
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Swollen, tender, or bleeding gums
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Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
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Receding gums & longer-looking teeth
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Loose or shifting teeth
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Pain when chewing
Causes & Risk Factors
🔹 Primary Cause: Bacterial plaque buildup leading to gum inflammation
🔹 Contributing Factors:
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Poor oral hygiene
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Smoking & tobacco use
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Diabetes & hormonal changes
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Genetic predisposition
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Medications causing dry mouth
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Poor nutrition (vitamin C deficiency)
Stages of Periodontitis
1. Gingivitis (Early Stage)
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Reversible gum inflammation
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Red, swollen gums that bleed easily
2. Mild Periodontitis
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Early bone loss
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Formation of periodontal pockets
3. Moderate Periodontitis
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Increased bone destruction
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Noticeable gum recession
4. Severe Periodontitis
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Significant bone loss
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Tooth mobility & potential tooth loss
Diagnosis & Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Treatments
✔ Scaling & Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)
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Removes plaque & tartar below the gumline
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Smooths roots to promote gum reattachment
✔ Antibiotic Therapy
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Topical (gels, chips) or oral antibiotics
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Helps control bacterial infection
Surgical Treatments (Advanced Cases)
✔ Flap Surgery (Pocket Reduction)
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Lifts gums to remove deep tartar deposits
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Secures gums back in place for tighter fit
✔ Bone & Tissue Grafts
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Regenerates lost bone & gum tissue
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Uses synthetic or natural grafting materials
✔ Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR)
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Stimulates regrowth of lost bone & connective tissue
Prevention & Maintenance
✅ Daily Oral Care:
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Brush twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush
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Floss daily & use interdental brushes
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Antimicrobial mouthwash (chlorhexidine-based)
✅ Professional Care:
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Regular dental cleanings (every 3-6 months)
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Periodontal maintenance visits
✅ Lifestyle Adjustments:
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Quit smoking
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Manage diabetes & other systemic conditions
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Eat a balanced diet (rich in vitamins C & D)
Long-Term Outlook
With early intervention & proper care, periodontitis can be controlled, preventing tooth loss and protecting overall health. Untreated cases may lead to:
⚠️ Tooth loss
⚠️ Increased risk of heart disease & stroke
⚠️ Complications in diabetes & respiratory diseases
