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Periodontitis, colloquially known as parodontosis, is a more common ailment than you might think – it has been called an “invisible epidemic” for a reason. [1] Find out what parodontosis actually is and what are its first symptoms.
What is periodontitis?
Parodontosis is an inflammatory disease that affects the periodontium, i.e. the tissues around the tooth – gums, periodontium, periosteum, root cementum and alveolar bone. These are extremely important structures that keep the teeth in the sockets and protect them from any contamination.
Gum and periodontitis are caused by more than 700 types of bacteria that live in the mouth – they are deposited on the teeth, gums and even restorations. [2] Like our gut, the oral cavity contains complex ecosystems of bacteria, also known as the oral microbiome. As in the gut, different types of bacteria compete for space – when all species are in balance, the gums are protected from pathogenic bacteria.
However, when this balance is upset, the bacteria in the plaque begin to multiply excessively and the gums can become inflamed. However, despite the discomfort, there is no irreversible damage to the gum tissue or teeth.
However, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. As your immune system fights off the bacterial infection, plaque begins to spread beyond the gum line. At this point, both the bacteria in the plaque and the enzymes your body uses to fight infection begin to produce toxins. As a consequence, it may lead to the loss of the tooth-supporting tissue and ultimately may even contribute to their loss. [3]
How is periodontitis manifested?
The symptoms of periodontitis are often innocent and neglected by many people – periodontitis does not always cause pain, so many people are unaware that they suffer from periodontitis. Over time, however, the symptoms worsen, and the main ones are:
- Bleeding gums, especially during and after brushing your teeth
- Red, tender gums
- Receding or wobbling teeth
- Bad breath
- Tooth sensitivity
- Purulent discharge between the tooth and the gum
Factors favoring the development of periodontitis
While bacterial plaque build-up is the leading cause of periodontal disease, there are several other factors that can contribute to the development of periodontitis. These include:
- Inadequate oral hygiene
- Untreated caries
- Smoking
- Hormonal changes, including those during menstruation, pregnancy, menopause, and adolescence
- Chronic diseases – diabetics, people undergoing anticancer treatment and immunodeficiencies are particularly at risk of developing parodontosis.
- Chronic stress – it weakens the body’s immune system, making it harder for the body to fight infections, including periodontal disease.
- Taking medications that reduce saliva production and cause a dry mouth promoting plaque formation, including antidepressants, diuretics and medications for high blood pressure. [4]
- Wearing braces – anything that makes brushing or flossing the teeth difficult, promotes the formation of plaque and tartar above and below the gum line, which increases the risk of periodontitis [5]
Why is gum health so important? Is parodontosis dangerous?
The effects of periodontitis can range from mild reddening and swelling of the gums to complete destruction of the tooth’s bone support. Treating periodontitis early is very important to avoid serious problems that can even lead to complete tooth loss.
Remember – oral health is just as important as the health of any other organ. Our body is a connected ecosystem, and a developing gum disease can negatively affect the health of the entire body. One of the latest studies has shown a strong correlation between periodontal disease and problems with the cardiovascular system, rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes. [6] [7]
What to do when the first symptoms of periodontitis appear?
The basis of effective treatment is a quick reaction – it is worth going to the dentist at the first disturbing symptoms. Early-stage periodontitis can be effectively prevented with thorough and effective daily oral care to prevent plaque build-up. Elgydium Clinic Perioblock Pro toothpaste and Eludril CLASSIC mouthwash will be an effective support for oral hygiene.
Toothpaste Elgydium Clinic Perioblock Pro is a toothpaste designed to ensure proper oral hygiene, to be used as an adjunct to the professional treatment of weakened gums. It helps soothe irritated gums and contributes to their health by reducing the formation of plaque. Thanks to the antibacterial active ingredient chlorhexidine digluconate 0,12%, it helps to fight the formation and deposition of plaque, and the glyceritic acid contained in it soothes inflammation, helps maintain brushing comfort and strengthens weakened gums. It is worth using this paste for the first month with increasing changes, and then, when the symptoms of periodontitis are weaker, it is worth reaching for the daily Elgydium paste for irritated gums. It has a soothing effect and reduces the redness of the gums.
Eludril CLASSIC is a rinse aid with a unique, patented formula for over 50 years. The proven composition makes Eludril CLASSIC a perfect complement to surgical, periodontal and implantological treatment as well as support in the regeneration of the gums. Importantly, it is suitable for people using orthodontic appliances, dentures and implants, helping to keep them clean and reach hard-to-reach parts of the mouth.
As an aid in gingivitis and periodontitis, it is also worth reaching for Elugel – a dental gel with local, antiseptic effect with chlorhexidine. It supports the maintenance of strict oral hygiene, helps to reduce plaque, soothes reddening and irritation of the gums. Elugel is also perfect after tooth extraction, implant placement and other dental procedures.
To sum up, prophylaxis is a key factor in the prevention of periodontitis, gum disease and periodontitis. Regular checkups at the dentist’s office, undergoing hygienization and proper oral hygiene are activities that will delay the development of the disease and make us enjoy a healthy smile for a long time. For everyday prophylaxis, it is worth reaching for specialized products, i.e. the Elgydium brand, available in pharmacies and dental offices, recommended by dentists.
PFM/68/2022