Understanding Periodontitis
Periodontitis is a serious and chronic infection that damages the soft tissue and bone supporting your teeth. If left untreated, it can eventually lead to tooth loss and increase your risk of systemic health conditions. At Toronto North Periodontics, we see the life-altering effects of this disease every day—but with early detection and proper treatment, periodontitis can be managed and controlled.
In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about periodontitis, including what causes it, the symptoms to look for, its connection to other health conditions, and how it’s treated.
What Is Periodontitis?
Periodontitis is an advanced form of gum disease that begins as gingivitis, a mild and reversible condition characterized by gum inflammation. If gingivitis is not treated with improved oral hygiene and professional cleanings, it can progress into periodontitis—a non-reversible disease that breaks down the gums, connective tissue, and jawbone that support your teeth.
As the infection advances, it causes periodontal pockets to form between the teeth and gums. These pockets trap plaque, bacteria, and food particles, making it nearly impossible to clean thoroughly with brushing and flossing alone. Over time, these pockets deepen, the bone erodes, and teeth become loose or fall out.
The Link Between Periodontitis and Overall Health
Periodontitis doesn’t just impact your oral health—it can also affect your entire body. Numerous studies have established strong associations between advanced periodontal disease and several chronic systemic illnesses, including:
- Diabetes: People with diabetes are more likely to develop periodontitis, and in turn, gum disease can make blood sugar levels harder to control.
- Cardiovascular Disease: Inflammation from gum disease is linked to heart disease, clogged arteries, and stroke.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Bacteria from the mouth can be inhaled into the lungs, worsening respiratory conditions.
- Pneumonia: Oral bacteria can travel through the respiratory system and increase the risk of lung infections.
Because of these links, periodontists often play a role in early detection and may refer patients to their physicians for further evaluation. Addressing periodontitis is essential not only for preserving teeth but also for supporting whole-body health.
Early Signs and Symptoms of Periodontitis
Catching periodontitis early is key to preventing permanent damage. Here are some common warning signs that you may have developed gum disease:
- Red or purplish gums that appear swollen or inflamed
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing—a common early sign of gum infection
- Gum recession, which makes the teeth look longer than normal
- Bad breath (halitosis) that doesn’t go away with brushing
- Teeth that feel loose or are starting to shift in your mouth
- Pain or discomfort when chewing
- Changes in bite alignment or how your teeth fit together
In some cases, patients may also develop a gum abscess—a localized pocket of infection around a tooth that can lead to rapid bone and tooth loss if not treated promptly.
How Periodontitis Develops
1. Plaque and Tartar Buildup
The root cause of periodontitis is the accumulation of plaque—a sticky biofilm of bacteria that forms on your teeth. When not removed through brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar, which can only be removed through professional cleaning.
2. Gingivitis
As plaque and tartar build up, they irritate the gums, causing gingivitis. This stage is still reversible with good oral hygiene and routine dental care.
3. Early Periodontitis
If gingivitis isn’t treated, the infection begins to damage the bone and tissues supporting your teeth. Gums begin to pull away, forming pockets where bacteria thrive.
4. Advanced Periodontitis
In the final stage, the bone continues to deteriorate, and teeth may become loose, shift, or fall out. At this point, more complex treatments—such as surgery or dental implants—may be needed to restore function.
Diagnosing and Treating Periodontitis
If you’re experiencing any of the signs of periodontitis, it’s crucial to see a periodontist right away. At Toronto North Periodontics, we use advanced diagnostic tools to assess the extent of the disease and recommend a personalized treatment plan.
Common treatments include:
- Scaling and Root Planing: A deep cleaning procedure to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooth the tooth roots to promote reattachment.
- Antibiotic Therapy: Localized or systemic antibiotics may be used to reduce bacterial load and inflammation.
- Osseous Surgery: For advanced cases, this surgical procedure reduces pocket depth and reshapes the bone to eliminate bacteria-trapping areas.
- Gum Grafting: To restore receded gums and protect exposed roots.
- Maintenance Therapy: Ongoing professional cleanings every 3–4 months are essential to keeping periodontitis in check and preventing recurrence.
Prevention: The Best Defense Against Periodontitis
While periodontitis is a chronic condition, it’s also largely preventable. Here’s how to reduce your risk:
- Brush your teeth twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste
- Floss or use interdental brushes daily
- Visit your dentist or periodontist for regular cleanings and check-ups
- Avoid smoking, which increases your risk of periodontal disease
- Manage chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, that may exacerbate gum disease
Don’t Ignore the Signs—Take Action Today
Periodontitis is a progressive disease—the longer it goes untreated, the more damage it causes. But with early detection and expert care, you can stop it in its tracks and protect your smile for years to come.
At Toronto North Periodontics, we specialize in diagnosing and treating all stages of periodontal disease. Whether you’re noticing symptoms for the first time or have been told you’re at risk, our team is here to help.
📞 Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward better gum health. Let us help you preserve your natural teeth and restore your confidence with expert periodontal care.
