Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a serious, chronic inflammation affecting the supporting tissues of the teeth, including the gums, periodontal ligaments and alveolar bone. It can occur as a result of untreated gingivitis and is characterised by receding gums, periodontal pocket formation, bone loss and, ultimately, tooth loss if left untreated.

Periodontitis is a dental condition that can affect anyone, regardless of their oral hygiene practices. This disease is not just about poor dental hygiene, as many other factors, such as genetics, heredity, medical conditions, stress, smoking, diet and hormonal changes, can play a role in its development. Periodontitis is therefore the result of a complex combination of these factors, rather than a lack of dental care. It is important to raise public awareness of the multifactorial nature of periodontitis to avoid unfair judgements towards those affected and to encourage a better understanding of the disease by highlighting the various risk factors.

Symptoms only appear when the disease has already reached an advanced stage, and the bacteria have been active in the pockets for several years without any signs. Hence the importance of prevention. However, there are certain warning signs:

These include :

Swollen gums

Swollen gums are an unusual sign often linked to infection or inflammation, such as gingivitis. Ignoring this symptom can worsen the condition, potentially leading to severe periodontal disease. Consulting a dentist is important to diagnose the cause, administer appropriate treatment and prevent more serious oral complications.

Gums bleeding

Bleeding gums may be the result of inflammation due to the accumulation of bacterial plaque or may indicate advanced periodontal disease. If bleeding occurs, it is essential to consult a dentist for a professional assessment, cleaning and appropriate care recommendations to restore optimal oral health.

Bad breath (halitosis)

Permanent bad breath, also known as halitosis, can indicate a variety of underlying problems. Causes may include plaque growth, gum infections (gingivitis and periodontitis) or untreated cavities. If bad breath persists despite hygiene efforts, it is advisable to consult a dentist to establish a precise diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment.

Darkened and/or receding gums

Darkened or receding gums can indicate a variety of oral health problems. Increased pigmentation may be linked to periodontal disease; healthy gums are light pink in colour. Retracted gums may indicate gum disease, exposing tooth roots and increasing the risk of sensitivity and tooth loss. It is essential to consult a dentist to diagnose the cause, avoid complications and receive appropriate treatment to maintain optimal oral health.

Sensitive gums

Unusual daily gum sensitivity indicates a potential problem. Increased sensitivity may signal inflammation or infection of the gums, requiring a dental consultation. Ignoring this can worsen oral problems. Early assessment by a dentist allows appropriate treatment and prevents possible complications.

Periodontal pockets

A periodontal pocket is an abnormal space between the gum and the tooth, often caused by periodontal disease (sometimes painless). It can lead to bone loss and damage to the tissues supporting the teeth. Consulting a dentist in the event of a periodontal pocket is crucial, as early treatment can prevent more serious damage and tooth loss.

Movable teeth

A loose tooth can refer to a tooth that moves or shifts more than normal. This can be caused by bone loss due to periodontal disease, infection or trauma. Seeing a dentist is important because an untreated loose tooth can lead to tooth loss. A professional can assess the underlying cause and recommend treatment to prevent more serious complications.

During a periodontal check-up, the practitioner examines X-rays and a sample of dental plaque to determine the level of gum infection.

To diagnose periodontitis, a periodontal check-up is carried out. We proceed as follows

• Interview with the patient to find out about their history, brushing habits and risk factors;
• Analysis of dental plaque for an immediate examination of any pathogenic bacteria and their extent; this examination is completely painless;
• Delivery of a report containing the treatment and a tailor-made estimate if the diagnosis of periodontitis is confirmed.

The treatments on offer are increasingly moving away from intrusive methods and concentrating on the bacterial cause to be eradicated, thanks to the use of lasers.

The aim is to eliminate the pathogenic bacteria in their entirety, as well as the tartar and plaque they use as a refuge, and to teach hygiene and behaviour to prevent re-infection.

Non-invasive and painless, the treatment involves deep disinfection, local antibiotic therapy and debridement of the pockets (lithotripsy) to eliminate the pathogenic bacteria, parasites and tartar stones lodged deep in the periodontal pockets.

As periodontal disease can develop quietly, it is important to carry out regular periodontal check-ups to identify infection.

Each treatment is the subject of a personalised treatment plan tailored to each patient.

Certain rare cases also require the use of a gum graft: in this case, a small portion of gum is removed and grafted onto the gum to be strengthened. The main indication for this graft is receding teeth.

The Sana Oris teams are committed to offering their patients excellent treatment, based as much on the expertise of our practitioners as on the quality and modernity of our equipment. Constantly checked and updated, all this equipment enables bacteria and parasites to be visualised and eliminated using non-invasive, painless techniques. The equipment needed to treat periodontitis is as follows:

• Optical microscope: this enables germs to be identified, treatment to be adapted according to the results, and periodontal pockets to be treated “blind”.
• Mechanical instruments: fitted with extremely fine inserts, these instruments eliminate the need for manual curettes, which damage the layer of cementum covering the root of the tooth.
• The diode laser: emits radiation capable of penetrating deep into gum tissue, thereby promoting decontamination by eliminating the pathogenic bacteria responsible for periodontal disease. Its use helps to reduce inflammation and encourages periodontal pockets to close, making it easier for the gums to re-adhere to the tooth.
• Optical glasses: these improve visibility during the procedure.

Periodontitis is a disease that can be treated and cured, but the bone that is lost cannot be rebuilt, which is why it is so important to treat and manage it in advance. The treatment of periodontitis establishes a healthy base, favouring subsequent dental interventions such as implantology, orthodontics and aesthetics, while preserving gum health to prevent tooth loss. It also plays a crucial role in preventing general health complications, given the correlation between periodontitis and overall health. This disease can worsen blood sugar levels, leading to insulin resistance and creating a vicious circle with diabetes. In addition, bacteria from periodontal pockets inhaled into the lungs can trigger inflammation, increasing the risk of respiratory complications. It is essential to recognise that gum health is a fundamental pillar of overall health. Treating periodontitis early prevents complications and preserves your teeth.

The price of periodontitis treatment at Cliniques Sana Oris will depend on the initial diagnosis and the techniques used.
You will be given an estimate at the end of the consultation. Each quotation is made to measure, according to the diagnosis made by the practitioner.