Periodontitis
Gum disease that has reached the bone holding the teeth; treatment stops it, but lost bone doesn't come back.
What it is
Periodontitis is the advanced form of gum disease. The inflammation goes below the gum, forms pockets between gum and tooth and gradually destroys the bone holding the teeth.
The signs
Gums that bleed and recede, teeth that look longer, new gaps between teeth, bad breath, teeth that start to move. Smoking and diabetes make it worse and can hide the bleeding.
What can be done
The pockets are measured and an X-ray taken, then the roots are deep-cleaned and, if needed, gum surgery follows. Treatment stops the disease, but lost bone doesn't grow back, so regular maintenance is essential. More at Gum treatment.
The earlier it's caught, the more teeth stay stable.
Reviewed by Dr. Voinea ·
CMDR Romania · Galați University of Medicine and Pharmacy · General Dentistry