Have you ever noticed bleeding when brushing your teeth or a feeling of sensitive gums? These signs may seem harmless, but they can signal the development of gum disease. When not treated in time, this condition can progress to the point of causing tooth loss. In this article, we explain how a simple inflammation of the gums can turn into an irreversible problem.
Gingivitis and periodontitis: what’s the difference?
Gingivitis is a mild and reversible inflammation of the gums, caused by the accumulation of plaque and tartar. It manifests itself by redness, bleeding when brushing and sometimes slight sensitivity. Fortunately, with good oral hygiene and professional cleaning, it can be completely reversed.
If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontitis, a more serious infection that affects the supporting tissues of the teeth, in which their roots are implanted. Unlike gingivitis, periodontitis causes irreversible damage and can lead, in the long term, to tooth loss.
The consequences of periodontitis: a destructive chain reaction
Periodontitis causes a series of cascading reactions that gradually affect the entire periodontium (tissues that surround and support the teeth).
- Receding gums
As the inflammation progresses, the gums begin to recede, exposing part of the tooth roots. This can lead to increased sensitivity and promotes bacterial proliferation deep within.
- Formation of periodontal pockets
When the gum detaches from the tooth, spaces called periodontal pockets form. These pockets become reservoirs where bacteria proliferate in large numbers. This phenomenon worsens the infection of the periodontal tissues.
- Destruction of supporting tissues
Bacteria present in the periodontal pockets release toxins that gradually destroy the periodontal tissues that hold the teeth in place. Even the alveolar bone of the jaw can be affected. This destruction is progressive, but irreversible.
- Mobility and loss of teeth
Without proper treatment, the destruction of the periodontium reaches a critical point where the teeth become mobile. At this point, they may fall out on their own or they must be extracted.
Prevention: the importance of regular dental follow-up
Good oral hygiene habits are essential to prevent gum disease. Effective brushing, flossing and a balanced diet help keep your teeth and gums healthy. However, even the best hygiene routine is no substitute for professional follow-up.
Regular cleaning by your dentist, including scaling, is essential to eliminate tartar buildup under the gum line, since this is directly linked to the development of gingivitis. If gum inflammation is already present, cleaning and scaling can reverse it and prevent the progression to periodontitis.
In addition, regular dental checkups are essential for the early detection of gum and periodontal disease. By detecting the first signs of inflammation, your dentist can intervene quickly and prevent the situation from getting worse.
Remember: protecting your gums also means protecting your smile in the long term!