The word ‘periodontal’ (periodontics) literally means ‘around the tooth’. Periodontal diseases change and endanger the tissue around the tooth, such as the gum, and the bone which supports it.
If left untreated, this disease may lead to tooth loss. When the gums are inflamed, the teeth may lose the bone which attaches them to the maxilla, becoming loose, causing discomfort and, finally, needing to be removed.
There are various types of periodontal disease, but the two most common are:
Gingivitis: inflamed blotchy gums, possibly bleeding when brushing, change in the profile – with receding and roots being exposed.
Periodontitis: after an untreated gingivitis, the bone in which the teeth are embedded may be affected – leading to its destruction and the tooth weak and unsupported. Teeth may be displaced, chewing become uncomfortable and gaps may appear between teeth.
Related questions
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