Periodontitis: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

10% of Canadians are living with severe periodontitis.

What is periodontitis?

Periodontitis is a severe form of gum disease that damages the soft tissue and destroys the bone that supports your teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss. It affects not only a person’s oral health, but also their overall health as it may increase the risk for certain medical conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and heart disease. Periodontitis can be mild, moderate or severe.

What are the causes of periodontitis?

Periodontitis typically begins with gingivitis, a mild gum infection caused by the build-up of harmful plaque biofilm and calculus on the teeth and under the gums. Left untreated, this infection eventually causes the gums to pull away from the teeth and form periodontal pockets that trap and grow more bacteria, eroding the supporting bone.

What other factors contribute to periodontitis?

Although bacteria beneath the gumline are the primary cause of periodontitis, other factors can increase its severity.

Download:
Periodontitis Periodontitis: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late (PDF)
tobacco, marijuana, vaping

Tobacco and marijuana use, and vaping

chronic diseases and stress

Chronic diseases and stress

mouth with tongue out

Medications that reduce saliva flow or cause gum overgrowth

hormonal changes image

Hormonal changes

hamburger and drink

Poor nutrition

genetics helix

Genetics

What are the signs of periodontitis?

1

Red, swollen gums that bleed easily

2

Receding gums

3

Gums that have pulled away from the teeth, creating deep pockets around them

4

Pus between the teeth and gums

5

Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth

6

Painful chewing

7

Teeth that feel loose, shift or fall out

progression of perodontitis

What can I do to prevent periodontitis?

Good oral hygiene practices are key to preventing or managing periodontitis.

  • Maintain regular dental hygiene appointments.
  • Brush two times a day, for two minutes each time, with an electric or soft-bristled toothbrush. Make sure to brush along the gumline.
  • Clean between your teeth with floss, an interdental brush or a water flosser daily.
  • Use an antibacterial mouthrinse for 30 to 60 seconds daily.
  • Eat a healthy diet consisting of proteins, fruits, and vegetables.
  • Quit smoking, vaping, and using tobacco and marijuana.
  • Manage health conditions such as diabetes and obesity.
toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouth wash
dental treatment room

What treatment options are available if I have periodontitis?

Unlike gingivitis, which is curable if caught early, periodontitis requires ongoing care from a dental hygienist or a dentist who specializes in periodontal disease (a periodontist).

Your dental hygienist will create a personalized treatment plan for you that may include:

  • Appointments every 3 to 4 months to remove plaque biofilm and calculus on your teeth and below the gumline
  • Education on additional home care techniques you can use to maintain good oral hygiene
  • Application of medications in the pockets around your teeth
  • Guidance for quitting smoking and vaping
  • Referral to a periodontist in cases of severe periodontitis

Although periodontitis cannot be cured, it can be managed.

At your next appointment, ask your dental hygienist if you have or are at risk for periodontitis. Working together, you can protect your gums and teeth and keep your smile healthy for a lifetime.

Disclaimer

All content within this area is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the expert advice of your own dental hygienist, dentist, or other health care professional. CDHA is not responsible or liable for any self-diagnosis made by a user based on the content of this site. CDHA is not liable for the content of any external internet sites listed, nor does it endorse any commercial product or service mentioned or advised on any of the sites. Always consult your own healthcare provider if you are in any way concerned about your health.

Land Acknowledgement

We acknowledge the unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishnabeg Nation as the traditional owners and guardians of the lands of the CDHA national office.

Nigì kikenindànànàn iyo nìgànì ondamitàwini wìbidikewogamig padakising Màmìwininì Anishinàbeg odakìwàng neyàgadawendamòdjig kaye ega wìkàd kàmìgiwewàdj iyo akì.

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