Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and bone that supports your teeth. It is caused by bacteria that accumulate in plaque, a sticky film that forms on your teeth. If not treated, periodontitis can lead to tooth loss. There are several types of periodontal diseases, including gingivitis, aggressive periodontitis, chronic periodontitis, and necrotizing periodontal disease.

What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is the mildest form of periodontal disease. It is caused by plaque buildup on the teeth, which irritates the gums and causes them to become red, swollen, and bleed easily. If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis.

What is Aggressive Periodontitis?

Aggressive periodontitis is a more severe form of periodontal disease.

It is characterized by rapid destruction of the gums and bone around the teeth. It is usually caused by certain types of bacteria that are more aggressive than those found in chronic periodontitis.

What is Chronic Periodontitis?

Chronic periodontitis is the most common form of periodontal disease. It is characterized by inflammation of the gums and destruction of the bone and connective tissue that support the teeth.

It usually develops slowly over time and can be caused by poor oral hygiene or certain types of bacteria.

What is Necrotizing Periodontal Disease?

Necrotizing periodontal disease is a rare but serious form of periodontal disease. It is characterized by destruction of the gums, bone, and other tissues that support the teeth. It can be caused by certain types of bacteria or viruses, or it can be a complication of an underlying medical condition such as HIV/AIDS or diabetes.

What Causes Periodontitis?

Periodontitis is caused by bacteria that accumulate in plaque on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film that forms on your teeth when you don't brush and floss regularly. The bacteria in plaque produce toxins that irritate the gums and cause them to become inflamed. If not treated, the inflammation can spread to the bone and other tissues that support your teeth, leading to periodontitis.

How Can Periodontitis Be Prevented?

The best way to prevent periodontitis is to practice good oral hygiene.

This includes brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can also recommend other treatments such as scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth.

Conclusion

Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that can lead to tooth loss if not treated. The best way to prevent periodontitis is to practice good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.