Periodontal disease is a pathology that affects the tissues that support the tooth (the periodontium): the gums, but also the alveolar bone, the ligament (which holds the tooth in the bone) and the cementum (which enables the ligament to hold onto the tooth). There are two main pathologies: gingivitis, a benign inflammation of the gums which is easily cured if treated in time, and periodontitis, which progressively destroys the attachment system of the teeth and can even lead to their loss. The most visible symptom of established periodontitis is loosening of the teeth: the gums become thinner, revealing the roots of the teeth. The disease can also occur when bacteria accumulate on the surface and below the gums in the form of tartar. Effective removal of plaque during brushing helps reduce the risk, but there are other factors that can favour the onset of gum disease: taking medication, smoking, pre-existing diabetes or coronary heart disease, but also, quite simply, a defective immune response in the subject, often of genetic origin. Several members of the same family often suffer from periodontitis. The symptoms of gingivitis and periodontitis in their early stages can be relatively discreet: red, swollen gums, but also bleeding when brushing or biting into an apple, for example. These signs should raise your alarm and prompt you to consult a periodontologist as soon as possible. Untreated gingivitis can develop into periodontitis, with irreversible damage, even if its progression can be halted with appropriate care and follow-up.
