Periodontal disease

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Periodontal disease:
All you need to know about them

Often masked, periodontal disease can have serious consequences, including tooth loss, if left untreated.

A periodontology practice located in the heart of Lyon’s Part-Dieu district, Studio Paro explains what defines this type of dental pathology, as well as why and how it develops.

Periodontal disease:
What is it?

Periodontal disease affects the periodontium, the tissues that support the teeth.

The periodontium consists of 4 elements: alveolar bone, gingiva, ligament and cementum. The alveolar bone surrounds the root of the tooth. The alveolar bone is covered by gingiva. Between the bone and the root is the ligament, which acts as a shock absorber between the bone and the root. And to be complete, the ligament is made up of fibers that attach to a thin layer along the root, called cementum, which acts as a glue.

When plaque builds up, inflammation can develop: gums become red and swollen, and you may feel irritation or itching. Bleeding when brushing or eating is also common. This is called gingivitis. This gum disease is benign if treated early.

When this is not the case, the disease can evolve into periodontitis, an infectious pathology with consequences that can be irreversible, but which can nevertheless be stabilized. In this case, bacteria (and tartar) accumulate beneath the gums, forming periodontal pockets. They attack the periodontium, gradually destroying it.

Finally, peri-implantitis is a periodontitis that occurs around a dental implant. The infection acts in the same way as classic periodontitis, except that it progressively destroys the gum and bone at implant level, rather than at the level of a natural tooth.

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What causes periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease always develops in an ideal environment, depending on various risk factors.

However, there is actually a wide range of causes that can lead to theonset of periodontitis or peri-implantitis:

In some cases, a combination of factors is involved. The idea that this type of disease is mainly due to a poor lifestyle is therefore false. In fact, the disease is favored by the absence of cavities.

Peri-implantitis develops in patients who already had a predisposition to this type of dental disease at the time of implant placement.

The pathology often progresses undetected, sometimes for several years, before periodontitis and its symptoms become more pronounced. The most easily identifiable are repeated bleeding of the gums, loosening of teeth or implants, increased sensitivity to cold foods or drinks, and teeth that move or shift in the jaw.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice.

What are the consequences for the health of your teeth?

Periodontal disease can have serious consequences not only for oral health, but also for the general health of those affected. The progressive destruction of tooth-supporting tissues means that teeth affected by periodontitis can become endangered and even fall out if the bone no longer surrounds the tooth root.

In the case of peri-implantitis, the dental implant will have to be removed if the progression of the disease is not halted.

There is also a risk to general health: the onset or worsening of diabetes, cardiovascular disease and premature delivery for pregnant women.

Periodontal treatment at Studio Dentaire in Lyon 3ème not only thoroughly cleans periodontal pockets and stops infection, but also strengthens the retention of teeth in the jawbone. Periodontal treatment will eliminate all symptoms (bleeding, pain, bad breath, tooth mobility). The patient will gain in comfort, be able to bite into apples or sandwiches again, and above all regain self-confidence.

Once your periodontitis has been treated, you will be offered follow-up sessions spaced a few months apart to ensure that the disease does not return.

Would you like to book an initial consultation at Studio Paro?

Studio Paro also treats gingivitis… to prevent it from developing into periodontitis. Contact us for a full periodontal assessment during your first session.