Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that affects the soft tissue and, if left untreated, can destroy the bone that supports your teeth. The result? Loosening teeth, tooth loss, and long-term oral health complications. The good news is that periodontitis is largely preventable and when caught early, it’s also treatable.
In this guide, we’ll break down what periodontitis is, what causes it, who’s at risk, how to recognise the signs, and most importantly, how to prevent periodontitis from developing in the first place.
What Is Periodontitis?
Periodontitis, also known as gum disease, occurs when bacteria in the mouth cause inflammation of the gums and surrounding tissue. It typically begins as gingivitis—a milder form of gum irritation and inflammation—but can progress to periodontitis if not addressed early.
Over time, untreated periodontitis can lead to the deterioration of the structures that hold your teeth in place, resulting in loose teeth or tooth loss. This condition can also impact your overall health, with studies linking gum disease to heart disease, diabetes, and other systemic issues.
Common Symptoms of Periodontitis
The early signs of periodontitis can be subtle, which is why regular dental visits are so important. Here are some common symptoms to watch for:
- Swollen, tender, or puffy gums
- Gums that bleed easily, especially when brushing or flossing
- Receding gumline, making teeth appear longer
- Persistent bad breath
- Pain when chewing
- Loose or shifting teeth
- New spaces forming between teeth (often appearing as “black triangles”)
- Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, don’t wait. The sooner periodontitis is diagnosed, the more effective the treatment.
What Causes Periodontitis?
The root cause of periodontitis is plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. When plaque isn’t removed through regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar (also known as calculus), which is much harder to clean and leads to gum irritation.
As the gums become inflamed, they start to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that fill with more bacteria. Without treatment, these pockets deepen and begin to damage both gum tissue and bone.
Who Is at Risk?
While anyone can develop periodontitis, certain risk factors can increase your chances:
- Poor oral hygiene habits
- Smoking or chewing tobacco
- Hormonal changes (such as during pregnancy or menopause)
- Certain medical conditions, including diabetes and autoimmune diseases
- Genetics and family history of gum disease
- Nutritional deficiencies, particularly low levels of vitamin C
- Medications that reduce saliva flow or cause gum changes
- Recreational drug use, including vaping
- Obesity
If you have one or more of these risk factors, maintaining excellent oral hygiene and seeing your dentist regularly is even more critical.
How to Prevent Periodontitis
Preventing periodontitis begins with a solid foundation of daily oral care. Here’s what you can do to protect your gum health:
Brush thoroughly twice a day
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to gently clean all surfaces of your teeth and along the gumline. Spend at least two minutes brushing, ideally in the morning and before bed.
Floss daily
Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth—areas your toothbrush can’t reach. For best results, floss before brushing to dislodge debris and make brushing more effective.
Schedule regular dental cleanings
Professional cleanings are essential for removing tartar and detecting early signs of gum disease. Most patients benefit from cleanings every six months, but those with higher risk factors may require more frequent visits.
Quit smoking
Tobacco use significantly increases the risk of periodontitis and makes treatment less effective. If you smoke, quitting can dramatically improve your oral and overall health.
Maintain a balanced diet
A diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants supports gum health and reduces inflammation. Vitamin C, in particular, plays a key role in maintaining healthy gums.
Treatment Options for Periodontitis
If diagnosed early, periodontitis can often be treated successfully. Treatment options may include:
- Scaling and root planing (a deep cleaning procedure to remove tartar from below the gum line)
- Antibiotics to help control bacterial infection
- Surgical treatments for advanced cases, such as flap surgery or bone grafting
- Ongoing maintenance therapy to prevent recurrence
At BluSky Dental, we offer comprehensive periodontal care tailored to your needs, using the latest techniques and a compassionate approach.
Schedule Your Periodontal Evaluation at BluSky Dental
Your gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. Protecting them is one of the best investments you can make in your long-term health. If it’s been a while since your last checkup, or if you’re noticing any signs of gum disease, don’t wait.
Our Ottawa dental team is ready to help you achieve and maintain optimal gum health at our Centrepointe, Holland Cross, and McCarthy locations.