Periodontitis – Gum Disease

Periodontitis is the main cause of tooth loss in individuals over the age of forty. In these age groups, one in three people suffers from some form and severity of the disease (gingivitis, periodontitis). Its progression is slow and without significant symptoms, which makes it unnoticed by many individuals.

The primary cause of periodontal disease is the presence of microbial plaque (biofilm) on the teeth. Effective daily brushing removes microbial plaque from the teeth. In cases of inadequate oral hygiene, microbial plaque increases and produces substances harmful to the supporting tissues of the tooth (gums, bone) as well as the dental tissues (enamel, dentin). The microbial plaque can be mineralized by salivary salts to form calculus, which facilitates further deposition of microbial plaque and continuous deterioration of gum health.

The simplest form of periodontitis is gingivitis. Its hallmark is the presence of blood in the gums and the red appearance seen in swollen gums. If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis, which leads to destruction of the bone, in turn resulting in gum recession and tooth mobility.