As a young dentist — and even today after many years of experience — I have always been surprised by how little attention is given to periodontal diseases.
Considering that periodontal diseases are among the most widespread conditions worldwide, it is clear that much more focus is needed on this serious issue.
Good oral health involves not just the health of individual teeth but also the health of the supporting structures that anchor the teeth in the bone and maintain their position.
In this blog, I will focus specifically on the supporting tissues of the teeth.
What Are Periodontal Diseases?
The periodontium is the supporting tissue of the teeth, developmentally, topographically, and functionally connected to the tooth.
It consists of the gingiva (gum tissue), periodontal ligament, alveolar bone, and cementum.
Periodontal diseases are a group of conditions that affect the periodontium or its individual components, regardless of the cause.
Although there is much to discuss regarding periodontal diseases, today our focus will be on gingivitis (gum inflammation) and periodontitis.
What Is Gingiva?
Healthy gingiva is typically coral pink in color, although variations can occur depending on skin pigmentation and mucosal conditions.
The shape of healthy gingiva resembles a collar around the tooth, and its surface texture is similar to the peel of an orange.
When discussing diseases of the gingiva, it is important to mention several conditions:
- Acute nonspecific gingivitis,
- Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG),
- Acute herpetic gingivostomatitis,
- Pericoronitis,
- Periodontal abscess,
- Chronic forms of gingivitis.
Acute Nonspecific Gingivitis
This condition typically develops due to plaque accumulation (poor oral hygiene).
Clinical signs include bleeding, swelling, erythema (redness), and pain, especially during chewing.
The gingiva becomes soft, loose, and may separate from the tooth neck, creating pseudo-pockets caused by edema.
What About Periodontitis?
Periodontitis is a far more serious condition than gingivitis.
It often develops from untreated gingivitis but it is important to note that not every case of gingivitis progresses to periodontitis.
Key features of periodontitis include:
- Inflamed gingiva (gums),
- Gingival enlargement,
- Color changes,
- Tooth mobility,
- Formation of true periodontal pockets,
- Radiographic evidence of alveolar bone loss.
Periodontitis cannot be completely cured, but with proper therapy, it can be managed and controlled to prevent further progression, with the goal of keeping the natural teeth functional for as long as possible.
How Is Gingivitis Treated?
Treatment of gingivitis is generally simpler than treatment of periodontitis and typically involves:
- Eliminating etiological factors (plaque and tartar removal),
- Professional dental cleaning,
- Use of antiseptic mouth rinses,
- Most importantly, educating the patient about correct brushing techniques and daily oral hygiene.
When Should You See a Dentist?
If you notice any changes in your gums — such as changes in color, shape, size, or bleeding — contact your dentist immediately.
Early intervention can prevent the progression to more serious periodontal conditions.
You can schedule a free dental consultation at our clinic to address any concerns and maintain the health of your smile!
