Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a serious, chronic inflammation that affects the tissues supporting the teeth, including the gums, periodontal ligaments, and alveolar bone. Unlike gingivitis, which affects the gums but does not involve the alveolar bone, periodontitis involves the progressive destruction of these tissues. This condition can develop as a result of untreated gingivitis and is characterized by gum recession, the formation of periodontal pockets, bone loss, and, ultimately, tooth loss if left untreated.

Periodontitis is a dental condition that can affect anyone, regardless of their oral hygiene practices. It results from a combination of several factors, including:

• Genetic predisposition and heredity
• Systemic diseases (diabetes, immune disorders, etc.)
• Stress, which weakens the immune system
• Smoking, a well-documented aggravating factor
• Unbalanced diet, low in essential nutrients
• Hormonal changes, particularly during pregnancy or menopause
• Inadequate oral hygiene, although this is not the only cause

It is essential to recognize the multifactorial nature of periodontitis in order to promote a better understanding of this condition, reduce misconceptions, and encourage comprehensive management of risk factors.

Symptoms only appear when the disease has already reached an advanced stage; the bacteria have been active in the pockets for several years without any signs. This is why prevention is so important. However, certain signs should raise alarm bells:

Among them are:

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. It is important to consult a dentist to diagnose the cause, administer appropriate treatment, and prevent more serious oral complications.

Bleeding gums

Gum bleeding can result from inflammation caused by bacterial plaque buildup or indicate advanced periodontal disease. If bleeding occurs, it is essential to consult a dentist for a professional evaluation, cleaning, and appropriate care recommendations to restore optimal oral health.

Bad breath (halitosis)

Persistent bad breath, also known as halitosis, can indicate a variety of underlying problems. Causes may include plaque buildup, gum infections (gingivitis and periodontitis), or untreated cavities. If bad breath persists despite good oral hygiene, it is recommended that you consult a dentist for an accurate diagnosis and to determine the appropriate treatment.

Dark and/or receding gums

Dark or receding gums can indicate various oral health problems. Increased pigmentation may be linked to periodontal disease; healthy gums are light pink in color. Gum recession can signal 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 gum inflammation or infection, requiring a dental consultation. Ignoring this can worsen oral health problems. Early evaluation by a dentist allows for 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 the tissues that support the teeth. Consulting a dentist if you have a periodontal pocket is crucial, as early treatment can prevent more serious damage and tooth loss.

Loose teeth

A loose tooth refers to a tooth that moves or shifts more than normal. This can be caused by bone loss due to periodontal disease, infection, or trauma. It is important to consult a dentist 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.

Do you have these symptoms?

Periodontitis often progresses without pain at first, making it difficult to detect unless you pay close attention. However, there are certain warning signs to watch out for.

Take a moment to assess yourself:

• Your gums bleed when you brush your teeth or on their own
• Your gums are red, swollen, or sensitive
• Do you have persistent bad breath (halitosis)?
• You notice that your teeth are receding (they appear longer)
• Your teeth seem looser than before
• Do you feel like your gums are receding?
• You notice visible or significant tartar buildup
• Do you experience discomfort or pain when chewing?

If you recognize one or more of these signs in yourself, it is essential to seek medical advice.

A periodontal examination allows for an accurate assessment of the condition of the gums and supporting tissues, and enables the implementation of appropriate treatment if necessary.

1. Comprehensive periodontal diagnosis and evaluation

Treatment forperiodontitis begins with a comprehensive periodontal evaluation.

This assessment includes a clinical interview (medical history, brushing habits, risk factors) as well as a dental plaque analysis performed using a painless plaque sample, which is immediately examined under a microscope to identify pathogenic bacteria and determine their extent.

These factors enable us to make an accurate diagnosis and recommend a personalized treatment plan.

The cost of a periodontal examination is €120. A personalized quote will be provided at the end of the consultation.

2. Initial phase: start of treatment

This initial phase aims to eliminate the bacteria responsible for periodontitis and halt the progression of the disease.

It is based on the implementation of a specific protocol to be followed at home, including learning proper brushing techniques and using specialized solutions to effectively control bacterial growth.

At the same time, sessions using a diode laser are performed to thoroughly disinfect the gum tissue and promote healing. The treatment is non-invasive and painless.

3. Monitoring and tracking progress

Depending on the severity of the periodontitis, a follow-up visit is scheduled several weeks later to assess the progress of the treatment.

This stage allows for the observation of clinical improvements, including a reduction in inflammation and bleeding, as well as tissue stabilization.

Additional tests, such as X-rays or microscopic examination, can be used selectively to refine the diagnosis and adjust treatment as needed.

4. Surgical treatment if necessary

In some cases, when there has been significant gum loss, a mucogingival procedure—such as a gum graft —may be recommended as a follow-up treatment.

Important note: This procedure is not intended to treat periodontitis.
The disease must first be stabilized through periodontal treatment.

The graft is intended to strengthen the tissue, improve comfort, and enhance the appearance when gum recession remains noticeable after treatment.

5. Long-term periodontal maintenance

Once periodontitis has been stabilized, regular maintenance is essential to preserve the results.

Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that requires ongoing monitoring. These appointments help maintain a healthy oral environment, control bacterial balance, and ensure tissue stability.

This maintenance allows for early intervention when necessary, thereby ensuring long-term stability and the preservation of teeth over time.

State-of-the-art equipment

At Sana Oris, our approach to treating periodontitis is based on state-of-the-art technology that enables precise diagnosis and targeted treatment.

Using an optical microscope makes it possible to identify the bacteria causing the infection in real time and to tailor the treatment protocol precisely.

The diode laser is used as a complementary treatment due to its effects on tissue: it helps reduce inflammation and promotes the closure of periodontal pockets, facilitating the reattachment of the gums to the tooth.

These technologies make it possible to move beyond “blind” treatment and instead take targeted, controlled, and effective action.

Multidisciplinary team of experts

The treatment of periodontitis requires specialized expertise and a comprehensive understanding of the patient's overall health.

At Sana Oris, our practitioners specialize exclusively in their respective fields, ensuring a high level of expertise in periodontology.

This approach ensures coordinated and comprehensive care, incorporating other specialties as needed, always with a focus on overall health and the preservation of natural teeth.

Each patient thus receives a personalized treatment plan.

Patient comfort: a non-invasive approach

At Sana Oris, periodontitis treatment is part of a medical periodontology approach that relies on techniques that are non-invasive and painless in the vast majority of cases.

The goal is to effectively treat the bacterial infection while minimizing damage to the tissue and ensuring the patient’s comfort.

The protocol is gradual, carefully managed, and supported at every stage, ensuring a reassuring, precise, and long-lasting treatment plan .

Impact on diabetes

Periodontitis and diabetes have a bidirectional relationship. Diabetes promotes the development of periodontitis by impairing the immune response, while periodontal inflammation can disrupt blood sugar balance.

Some studies also show that periodontal treatment can improve blood sugar control. Research published in peer-reviewed scientific journals on PubMed confirm this close link between periodontitis and diabetes.

Cardiovascular risks

Periodontitis is linked to cardiovascular disease, particularly because of the chronic inflammation it causes.

Periodontal bacteria and inflammatory mediators can enter the bloodstream and contribute to the mechanisms involved in atherosclerosis.

Studies published in international scientific journals (including Frontiers) highlight a link between periodontitis and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Complications during pregnancy

During pregnancy, hormonal changes make the gums more sensitive and can increase the risk of developing periodontitis.

Some studies suggest a link between periodontal disease and complications such as preterm birth or low birth weight, due to the spread of inflammation throughout the body.

Scientific research published in medical journals (cited on PubMed) confirm these links between periodontitis and pregnancy complications.

Essential daily habits

The prevention of periodontitis depends above all on thorough and proper oral hygiene.

This includes an effective brushing technique, moving from the gum line toward the tooth, to remove bacterial plaque without damaging the tissues. Using the right toothpaste along with additional tools such as dental floss or interdental brushes is essential for cleaning hard-to-reach areas.

These steps help limit the buildup of bacteria that cause periodontal disease.

Frequency of follow-up visits

Even with good oral hygiene, regular checkups are still essential for preventing periodontitis.

Regular checkups allow for the early detection of signs of inflammation and enable intervention before the disease progresses. A periodontal evaluation may be recommended depending on your situation.

The frequency of these visits is tailored to each patient, but regular checkups help maintain healthy gums over the long term.

Risk factors to watch out for

Certain factors can contribute to the development of periodontitis or accelerate its progression.

Among the main causes are: smoking, diabetes, stress, certain genetic predispositions, and poor hygiene habits.

Identifying these factors makes it possible to tailor treatment and implement more targeted preventive measures, thereby reducing the risk of the disease developing or progressing.