We are accepting new patients. Evening and weekend appointments are available.

Free initial consultation with the dental hygienist.

We are accepting new patients. Evening and weekend appointments are available.

Free initial consultation with the dental hygienist.

Parodontitis | Gum and Bone Inflammation

What is periodontitis?

If gum inflammation (gingivitis) is not treated, the inflammation can spread to the jawbone. The gums detach from the teeth, creating spaces (pockets) that become deeper than 3 mm. Plaque accumulates again in these pockets, worsening the inflammation. The jawbone breaks down and the plaque partially turns into tartar. This progressive inflammation is called periodontitis. Periodontitis treatment in The Hague: in severe cases, teeth can become loose and eventually fall out.

Symptoms of periodontitis

Periodontitis can develop slowly and remain undetected for a long time. Possible symptoms include:

  • Red, swollen, or soft gums
  • Bleeding during brushing or eating
  • Recessed gums (teeth appear longer)
  • Bad breath or unpleasant taste
  • Sensitivity to temperature or pressure
  • Shifting teeth or new gaps
  • Loose teeth

Note: These symptoms may not always be present. Regular check-ups are essential.

How is periodontitis diagnosed?

A dental hygienist uses a probe to measure the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums. They also check for bleeding, tooth mobility, and gum condition. X-rays reveal whether and how much bone loss has occurred around the roots.

Causes and risk factors

Periodontitis is influenced by multiple factors:

  • Bacteria in dental plaque: The composition and aggressiveness of bacteria vary from person to person. Your immune system also plays a role.
  • Bacteriën in tandplak: De samenstelling en agressiviteit van bacteriën verschilt per persoon. Ook je afweer speelt een rol.
  • Smoking: Harmful substances like nicotine reduce blood flow and gum defenses. Smokers are more likely to experience bone loss and poorer healing.
  • Systemic diseases and stress: Conditions like diabetes (especially poorly controlled), cardiovascular disease, and psychological stress can worsen periodontitis. While the exact link is still being studied, overall health impacts oral health.

 

When to seek advice

Contact your dentist or dental hygienist if you notice:

  • Bleeding gums during brushing, flossing, or eating
  • Sensitive or painful gums
  • Receding gums
  • Teeth shifting position
  • Loose teeth
  • Bad breath or unpleasant taste

Advanced periodontitis

At a later stage, teeth may become loose or visible gaps may develop. Receding gums can lead to exposed roots, causing sensitivity when brushing and when eating or drinking hot, cold, sweet, or acidic products. The appearance of the teeth also changes. Without periodontitis treatment in The Hague, the jawbone can erode to such an extent that teeth lose their grip and fall out.

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