What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Gum Disease (severe form)
• Infection of Gums causing Periodontitis
• Pyorrhea

What is Periodontitis? (Definition/Background Information)

• Periodontitis is a common, but severe form of gum disease that develops due to an infection. It affects the teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues in the mouth, causing the area to swell. The condition causes damage to the gums and tissues, which in turn leads to deterioration of the teeth
• Although Periodontitis is generally observed in adults, children with poor dental hygiene can develop the condition as well. The risk factors that could predispose an individual to Periodontitis include smoking, reduced immunity, hormonal imbalances, diabetes, and even cancer
• Periodontitis usually exhibit symptoms such as swollen gums, bleeding while flossing/brushing, and pus formation in the gums, bad breath and unusual taste in mouth. Apart from loss of teeth, the complications may even include coronary artery disease and stroke
• A dentist may be able to diagnose the infection and weakened gums during a dental examination. Some imaging techniques may be used to ascertain the damage extent to the teeth, gums, and surrounding tissue
• The treatment for Periodontitis may range from routine oral cleaning to medication, and the application of sealants. The prognosis with early and timely treatment is good
• If it is not promptly treated, Periodontitis can result in tooth loss, as well as cause heart and lung associated health conditions. In some rare cases, pregnant women with Periodontitis can give birth to premature babies
• Maintaining good oral and dental hygiene can help prevent Periodontitis. A prompt treatment of early stage gum disease can result in a cure

Who gets Periodontitis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Periodontitis is generally seen among adults, mostly in the 30-40 year age group
• However, it can also develop in children, especially in children with poor oral hygiene
• It can affect both men and women, though this gum disease is more commonly seen in men
• Currently, no studies report the condition to be more prevalent among a particular racial or ethnic group

What are the Risk Factors for Periodontitis? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors associated with Periodontitis may include:

• Smoking and tobacco use: Heavy and chronic tobacco use increases the risk of developing Periodontitis
• Changes in hormonal levels due to various health conditions
• Generally, older the age, the greater is the risk
• Individuals with poorly-controlled diabetes
• Poor oral habits: This facilitates bacterial growth in the mouth thereby increasing the risk for developing Periodontitis
• Weakened immune system: Individuals affected by diseases, such as HIV or AIDS, which decrease one’s immunity are at an increased risk
• Individuals with cancer
• Certain medications can increase the risk for Periodontitis
• Some individuals can have abnormal teeth structure that may place the individual at a higher risk; this feature may run in certain families
• Genetic susceptibility: Some individuals are more genetically predisposed and have a higher risk of developing severe forms of gum disease
• Rheumatoid arthritis

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Periodontitis? (Etiology)

The main cause of Periodontitis is infection of the gum, teeth, and surrounding tissue.

• This leads to plaque buildup on the affected teeth (or tooth). When this plaque is left on the teeth for extended periods of time, it hardens, and bacteria in the mouth start to release toxins that damage the gums
• Over time as the plaque builds up, pockets form between the teeth and gums that lead to deeper infection of the gums
• Eventually, this infection spreads to the ligaments and bone in the mouth causing degradation of these structures resulting in Periodontitis

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Periodontitis?

The signs and symptoms associated with Periodontitis include:

• Swollen, painful gums that appear red
• Abnormal teeth with gaps in between them; having loose teeth
• Pus buildup between the teeth and gum
• Bleeding during brushing or flossing
• Abnormal taste in the mouth
• Bad breath

How is Periodontitis Diagnosed?

The diagnostic tests for Periodontitis may involve the following:

• An oral specialist (dentist) will examine the symptoms and perform a physical exam on the mouth
• The specialist will look for plaque and tartar buildup and check how tender and how easily the gums bleed
• A thorough analysis of the individual’s medical history
• X-rays of the jaw, head, and neck area can be taken to detect the extent of bony involvement, which is caused by the inflammation
• An MRI scan or CT scan of the head and neck region can be used to detect the extent of the damage to the jaw, head, and neck

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Periodontitis?

The possible complications associated with Periodontitis include:

• Loss of teeth
• Lung-related conditions that may affect normal breathing
• Coronary artery disease
• Heart-related conditions that may even lead to a stroke
• Expectant mothers with untreated Periodontitis have an increased chance of giving birth to a premature baby
• Recurrence of the condition

How is Periodontitis Treated?

There are many treatment options available for Periodontitis. The main goal of the treatment is to avoid further damage to the affected region.

• In cases with mild symptoms, a simple oral cleansing treatment by the dentist and removal of the plaque may be sufficient
• However, moderate to severe cases may require a sealant to level the surface of the teeth and avoid further plaque buildup. In addition to this, medications may be required to combat any possible bacterial infection
• Surgery is rarely necessary; but for more advanced stages, a portion of the gum may have to be removed to allow the dentist direct access to the root of the affected area. During this procedure, the abnormal root is repaired and suitably sutured
• Changes to lifestyle may be required in order to avoid the recurrence of Periodontitis (such as the use of an electric brush to prevent plaque buildup)

Regular visits to the dentist and maintaining good oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing after each meal, are generally recommended.

How can Periodontitis be Prevented?

Currently, the best approach to prevent the development of Periodontitis is to maintain good oral hygiene.

• Good oral hygiene can be achieved by brushing the teeth twice daily and by flossing at least once a day. In fact, it is recommended that individuals brush after every meal
• Studies indicate that flossing before brushing is beneficial and recommended. Flossing loosens food particles in the teeth, making it easier to remove them with brushing
• In addition to this, visiting a dentist at least once every 6 months for a proper dental check-up and cleaning is highly recommended, to prevent any tooth-related issues
• Controlling diabetes through lifestyle changes
• Stopping or altering the doses of certain medications that are known to potentially cause Periodontitis or aggravate this gum disease

Early and prompt treatment of mild gum disease or any dental health conditions can help prevent Periodontitis.

What is the Prognosis of Periodontitis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis for Periodontitis is generally very good, as there is many treatment options available to help treat all cases of the condition, whether mild or severe
• Following a good oral hygiene regimen after treatment can prevent recurrences

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Periodontitis:

In order to prevent Periodontitis, gingivitis or gum disease needs to be treated in the early stages.