Periodontitis – A Silent Threat to Teeth and the Entire Body
Beautiful white teeth and a radiant smile – this is a dream we all share. That is why we strive to give our teeth the best possible care.
However, we often forget about the gums. Yet, healthy gums play a crucial role in the overall condition of the teeth and can significantly impact the entire body.
Periodontal disease, periodontitis, gingivitis … These conditions can ultimately lead to tooth loss. Gingivitis, an early-stage gum inflammation, precedes periodontitis, but unlike periodontitis, it is easily treatable!
The primary factor causing gum inflammation is **dental plaque**. This is a sticky, soft, and colorless biofilm that firmly adheres to the tooth surface. It consists mainly of saliva components, food debris, and microorganisms (especially bacteria) in the oral cavity. If dental plaque is not removed over time, it mineralizes and turns into **tartar**.
Untreated gingivitis can progress in nearly half of cases to affect the connective tissues supporting the teeth (the periodontium) and eventually the bone, which can lead to the loss of individual teeth or even the entire dentition. At this stage, it is referred to as periodontitis.
A major danger of gingivitis and periodontitis is that they often appear asymptomatic, especially in the early stages.
Symptoms of Gum Disease:
- In the early stages, it is painless
- Swollen and reddened gums
- Gums that bleed, especially when brushing teeth or eating hard foods
- Sensitive tooth necks
- Receding gums exposing the tooth roots
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose or shifting teeth
- In the final stage, teeth become extremely loose and may fall out on their own
Serious Health Risks Beyond Oral Health:
- Clinical studies and research suggest that advanced gum disease may increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and chronic kidney inflammation, particularly in the elderly population
- Bacteria from oral infections can enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body, potentially infecting distant organs
- Research teams worldwide are investigating the hypothesis that bacteria from the oral cavity contribute to the development and progression of **atherosclerosis**, affecting blood vessel elasticity
- Scientists are also examining a possible link between gum disease and **Alzheimer’s disease**
- The respiratory system is often affected due to the close proximity of the oral cavity
- In young pregnant women, hormonal changes combined with poor **oral hygiene** can cause severe complications. Some studies suggest that **pregnancy gingivitis** increases the risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and even miscarriage
- For individuals with **diabetes**, untreated and progressive gingivitis can worsen the disease, while treating gingivitis and maintaining excellent oral hygiene can help improve diabetic conditions
Prevention is Key:
Both gingivitis and periodontitis result from neglected oral hygiene or improper tooth brushing. Therefore, the most essential and effective approach is **prevention** through consistent and thorough oral hygiene. This means regularly and completely removing dental plaque, particularly the bacteria it contains.
It is crucial to **mechanically clean all tooth surfaces** using a high-quality toothbrush and the correct brushing technique, followed by the use of an **interdental brush** to clean between teeth.
Regular **dental check-ups** with a dentist or dental hygienist are essential—not only to assess the condition of the teeth and perform any necessary early interventions but also to receive professional training on proper brushing techniques and to establish a daily oral care routine that cannot be replaced by any other means.
