Gingivitis and periodontitis. Don't be left without teeth!

Abstract

Gum diseases caused by the accumulation of dental plaque, known as gingivitis and periodontitis, affect the structures that support the teeth, such as the gums and bone. Plaque-induced gingivitis (caused by bacteria) is the mildest form of gum disease and can be found in up to 90% of the population. It is an inflammatory response of the gum tissues resulting from the accumulation of harmful bacteria located on the surface and below the gumline. Although gingivitis itself does not directly cause tooth loss, controlling it is a fundamental preventive strategy to avoid progression to periodontitis. If gingivitis is not properly treated, it can develop into periodontitis, a chronic disease that causes progressive destruction of the bone that supports the teeth, which can lead to the loss of multiple teeth. Tooth loss affects chewing function, making it difficult to chew certain foods, impacts speech, and increases the risk of dental and gum problems. In this article, we will discuss how these gum diseases develop, how to detect and treat them. We will also examine oral hygiene practices that are essential for preventing both gingivitis and periodontitis, and how the risk of tooth loss can be reduced through early intervention and proper dental care.