Periodontitis

Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease of the supporting tissues surrounding the tooth. Periodontitis is also linked to numerous systemic diseases like diabetes. Evidence shows that certain systematic diseases can lead to an higher risk of developing periodontal disease.

Periodontitis affect 20-50% of the worlds population. It has been established that Periodontitis can lead to cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis and even preterm low birth weight of babies to mothers who have periodontal disease.

The periodontium is the supporting structure that surrounds a tooth and includes the gums, the alveolar bone, cementum and the periodontal ligament. Periodontitis is due to inflammation in these structures due to bacteria present in the oral cavity.

Periodontitis occurs from either poor oral hygiene and patient specific risk factors. These risk factors include modifiable risk factors such as smoking, poor oral hygiene, diabetes, stress and pregnancy. It can also be caused by non modifiable factors such as age and genetics.

Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gum as a result of bacteria and plaque between the gum line and the tooth. Gingivitis affects 90% of a population, and is easily treated with a good clean and better brushing and flossing techniques.

Periodontitis on the other hand is when the health of the gingiva or gum, has progressed beyond gingivitis into a chronic and destructive irreversible inflammatory condition. The bacteria has now moved deeper into the gum and leads to loss off attachment of the gum to the tooth, loss of bone around the tooth and mobility /movement on the affected teeth.

Periodontitis is definitely treatable and preventable.

Visiting your Dentist and oral hygienist every 6 months will allow them to check and clean your mouth and if any signs of Periodontitis is visible, they will be able to refer you to the correct specialist