Periodontitis is silent. It does not hurt, at least not at first. It progresses slowly, destroying the supporting structures of your teeth, until one day a tooth moves, then falls out, and no one saw the problem coming.
It is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults over 40 worldwide. And in Morocco, as everywhere, it is widely under-diagnosed. This article explains what it is, how to detect it early, and how to treat it.
Gingivitis is superficial inflammation of the gums. Your gums are red, swollen, they bleed when you brush. It is reversible with scaling and improved hygiene.
Periodontitis is the evolution of untreated gingivitis. The inflammation descends below the gum, destroys the periodontal ligament, then the alveolar bone itself. This process is irreversible: lost bone does not spontaneously regenerate.
The transition from one to the other can take months or years. This is why regular dental check-ups are essential.
Tobacco is the number one risk factor for periodontitis. It reduces gum vascularization, masks bleeding, and diminishes the local immune response. A smoker has two to three times the risk of developing severe periodontitis compared to a non-smoker.
Diabetes is the second major factor, and the relationship is bidirectional: diabetes promotes periodontitis, and periodontitis worsens glycemic imbalance.
Chronic stress, certain medications, and genetic factors also play a role. Inform your dentist of your general health at each consultation.
Periodontitis is serious. It is treatable. But the earlier it is managed, the less destruction occurs and the better the prognosis for the affected teeth.
If your gums bleed regularly, if you notice tooth recession or persistent bad breath, do not normalize these symptoms. Consult. Longchamp CIL Dental Clinic offers complete periodontal assessments and treatments adapted to every stage of the disease.
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