Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the supporting tissues of the teeth, namely the gums, alveolar bone, periodontal ligament, and cementum. It can cause irreversible damage if not treated promptly. This condition is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, making it a major oral health concern. It can also have repercussions on general health, making comprehensive care necessary.
Periodontitis develops due to an accumulation of bacteria in the form of dental plaque, which eventually hardens into tartar if not removed. The bacteria multiply in the plaque and cause inflammation in the supporting tissues of the teeth. If the inflammation persists, it causes destruction of the surrounding tissues, including the alveolar bone. This process leads to tooth loss and irreversible recession if no treatment is undertaken.
Periodontitis progresses through several phases, depending on the advancement of periodontal tissue destruction.
At this stage, periodontal pockets begin to form. The gums detach from the teeth, creating spaces conducive to bacterial proliferation. These early phases often remain silent and may go unnoticed without regular dental examinations.
Bacteria continue to accumulate in the periodontal pockets, causing progressive degradation of the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. The teeth may begin to destabilize slightly.
The infection spreads and causes advanced destruction of the supporting tissues. Tooth mobility becomes evident and the risk of tooth loss is very high. The surrounding bone structure is severely affected.
Several factors can accelerate the development of periodontitis. Some of them are modifiable, while others depend on genetics or systemic conditions.
Periodontitis has direct repercussions on the health of your teeth and gums. Local consequences can worsen over time if the disease is not treated.
Periodontitis causes progressive destruction of the supporting tissues. This leads to the formation of deep pockets between the teeth and gums, where bacteria proliferate. With the degradation of the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone, the teeth become mobile, thus losing their natural anchorage. This mobility can cause significant discomfort and, in the most advanced cases, permanent tooth loss.
Another consequence of periodontitis is gingival recession. As they recede, the gums expose the root of the teeth, which leads to increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods. Gingival recession can also have aesthetic consequences, altering the appearance of the teeth and smile. Furthermore, gum recession exposes the teeth more to root cavities, thereby increasing the risks of further deterioration.
One of the most serious consequences of periodontitis is bone loss around the teeth. In the absence of treatment, the alveolar bone continues to resorb, compromising the stability of the remaining teeth. This bone loss also complicates the placement of dental implants, which require a sufficient amount of bone to ensure their stability. In severe cases, bone grafts may be necessary before considering implant solutions.
Periodontitis is not limited to the mouth. The bacteria that proliferate in the periodontal pockets can enter the bloodstream and cause health problems throughout the body.
The bacteria and inflammation associated with periodontitis can play a role in the development of cardiovascular diseases. They promote the formation of atherosclerotic plaques in the arteries, thereby increasing the risks of myocardial infarction or stroke. Studies have shown that people suffering from periodontitis have an increased risk of heart disease.
Diabetes and periodontitis form a vicious cycle. Poorly controlled diabetes weakens the immune system and increases the risk of infections, including those of the gums. At the same time, periodontitis can worsen blood sugar control, which complicates diabetes management. People with diabetes must therefore pay particular attention to their oral health to avoid complications.
The bacteria present in the oral cavity in patients with periodontitis can be inhaled, causing respiratory infections such as pneumonia. This phenomenon is particularly concerning in elderly people or immunocompromised individuals. The aspiration of these bacteria into the lungs can lead to serious complications, particularly in patients with preexisting respiratory conditions.
