Periodontitis is not called the ‘Silent Killer’ without reason. It attacks the parodontium and the jaw bone in such a way that there are very few people who are aware of this disease and its consequences. Do the first symptoms apply in your case?

This disease damages the gum and the jaw bone with the help of the bacteria that the plaque and tartar contain. If not treated, it leads to gum and bone recession, bad breath and tooth loss. The disease can be symptom-free as well and that is why it is also called the ‘Silent Killer’.

As a result of the ‘Silent Killer’ the remaining teeth have to be extracted as there has bone left that could hold them.

If the bone loss is severe even dentures cannot be worn.

Gingivitis: Gingivitis makes the gum red and swollen. Because of this the gum starts to bleed more easily. Gingivitis is caused by inadequate oral hygiene but it can be reversed by proper medical treatment and good oral home care.

Peridontal Pocket: Gums separate from the teeth, forming pockets (spaces between the teeth and gums) that become infected. As the disease progresses, the pockets deepen and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed. 

Periodontitis: At this stage bone and gum loss are very large.  Eventually, teeth can become loose and may have to be removed.

 The first signs of periodontitis:

• Red, swollen and sensitive gums or other pain in your mouth

• Soft gum bleeding while brushing, flossing, or when chewing hard foods (eg. apple, bread crust)

• Gums that are receding or pulling away from the teeth, causing the teeth to look longer than before (the cause can also be a too strong toothbrush or brushing the teeth too strong)

• Loose or separating teeth

• Pockets appear between your gums and teeth (pockets are sites where the attachment has been gradually destroyed by collagen-destroying enzymes, known as 'collagenases')

• Sores in your mouth

• Persistent bad breath

• Constant metallic taste in your mouth

• A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite