Periodontitis is an advanced state of gum disease which is characterized by inflammation and infection of the ligaments and bones that support the teeth.  It occurs when inflammation and infection of the gums is left untreated or treatment is delayed.  Once it spreads from the gums to the ligaments and bones that support the teeth, the teeth become loose and it eventually falls out.

Periodontitis is the chief cause of tooth loss in adults.  This disorder is very rare during childhood but increase during adolescence.  It is brought about by plaque and tartar which has accumulated at the base of the teeth causing inflammation.  As the oral defense mechanisms fight against inflammation, it results to the development of pockets between the gums and the teeth.  The soft tissue swelling traps the plaque in the pocket leading to continued inflammation. Later, this results to destruction of tissues and bone surrounding the tooth.  Since plaque contains bacteria, infection is likely to occur and tooth abscess may also develop increasing the rate of bone destruction.

Symptoms of periodontitis may include unimpressive breath odor or bad breath, shiny gums, bright red or red-purple gums, gums that bleed easily, tender gums but painless when touched, loose teeth and swollen gums.  Early periodontitis symptoms are usually similar to that of gingivitis’.

When examined, soft, swollen, red-purple gums are usually seen.  Plaque deposits and calculus may also be visible at the base of the teeth.  One can also notice enlarged pockets in the gums.  The gums are usually painless or mildly tender unless tooth abscess has already developed.  Lastly, gums may be receded and teeth may be loose.  If further examined with dental x-rays, loss of supporting bone will be exposed and presence of plaque deposits under the gums will also be revealed.

It is important to cure periodontitis disease once and for all.  Treatment can reduce inflammation, eliminate pockets if present and treat underlying causes.  It is acknowledged that periodontitis is the advanced stage of gingivitis so it means that nothing could be worse than this.

One of the ways to treat gingivitis is to have the teeth cleaned thoroughly.  However, this can’t be done by ordinary brushing alone.  Meticulous oral hygiene is needed such as using effective all-natural toothpaste and mouthwash and that flossing should be done regularly to at least minimize the need for frequent professional cleaning.  Patients with periodontitis should undergo professional tooth cleaning more than twice a year.

At some point, surgery may be necessary for deep pockets in the gums may have to be opened and cleaned.  Loose teeth may need to be supported or have to be removed by the dentist so that the problem does not get worse and spread to nearby areas.