Periodontitis is an inflammation of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. These tissues include the gums, fiber support, periodontal ligaments and the bone, all of which anchor the teeth. Periodontitis is a bacterial disease that most often occurs when the immune mechanism is impaired. Gum Disease in Hattiesburg MS usually starts with an inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) which gradually spreads to the bone, forming infected “pockets” between the gum and the tooth. If left untreated, periodontitis may cause destruction of bone and loosening or a loss of teeth.
Types of periodontitis
Periodontitis is commonly distinguished between:
* Chronic periodontitis, which has a slower rate of progression to moderate.
* Aggressive periodontitis, which can be localized or generalized.
Periodontitis can also occur on the margins of other diseases such as diabetes, cancer or HIV / AIDS, for example. Dentists then speak of periodontitis being associated with systemic diseases. Another way of classifying periodontitis is to base it on the age of onset of the disease. Thus, one can distinguish:
* Periodontitis in adults, which is far more common.
* Early periodontitis in children and adolescents, which is changing rapidly.
Who is affected?
According to sources, it is estimated that periodontal disease affects, to varying degrees, 20 to 50% of adults. A recent study in the United States confirms that nearly half of adults with periodontitis has some form of the disease (mild stage, moderate or severe). The prevalence and severity of the disease increases with age. The same study noted that approximately 65% of people over 65 have a moderate or severe case of periodontitis.
Causes of disease
Periodontitis is a disease of complex origin and involves two factors:
* Oral bacteria, harmful or “pathogens”.
* Weakening or lack of responsiveness of the immune system.
Several factors may contribute to the onset of periodontitis as smoking, infection, poor diet, etc. Gum Disease in Hattiesburg MS can also be a manifestation associated with certain systemic diseases such as diabetes (see section ” at-risk and risk factors “). Hundreds of different species of bacteria live in the mouth. Some are beneficial but others detrimental to oral health. The bacteria form a film on the teeth and gums, which forms the dental plaque. This plaque is removed during brushing, but quickly reforms and may solidify into tartar.
