You have most likely heard of periodontitis — a dental condition that is often overlooked but can have serious consequences for oral health if not treated promptly.
Dr. Giano Ricci of Studio Ricci Firenze was among the first dentists in Italy to recognize the importance of this inflammatory condition of the mouth and to treat it in order to prevent its ultimate consequence: tooth loss.
As experts in this field, also at an international level, we will help you explore in detail the causes, symptoms, and treatments of periodontitis.
We will look at how to recognize it, what the risk factors are, and how to prevent it through proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.
What is periodontitis (pyorrhea) and why is it dangerous for our health?
Periodontitis, commonly known as “pyorrhea,” is a chronic inflammatory oral disease that leads to the loss of clinical attachment of the teeth to the alveolar bone, resulting in the formation of periodontal pockets, tooth mobility, gum bleeding, and abscesses.
In essence, the tooth is no longer properly anchored in its natural position, allowing inflammatory processes to develop that can become chronic and severe.
The most serious consequence of untreated periodontitis is the progressive loss of the bone supporting the teeth, which eventually leads to tooth loss.
In our practice, we often emphasize a fundamental concept: natural teeth do not fall out simply due to aging.
Tooth loss is a consequence of disease, which can be effectively managed with appropriate periodontal treatment.
What are the symptoms of periodontitis and how to recognize the early signs
The symptoms of periodontitis are often noticeable by the patient themselves.
Dr. Giano Ricci has observed that there are three main symptoms that typically lead patients to seek specialist care:
- Gum bleeding, either spontaneous or during brushing or chewing
- Gum recession
- Tooth mobility
The latter is particularly important, as patients who notice their teeth moving — even if they are intact, white, and cavity-free — often become concerned about losing them.
In reality, all these symptoms can be successfully treated by a specialist periodontist.
Why it is important to act early
Timely intervention is one of the most important factors for the success of periodontal treatment.
Early treatment, at the first signs of disease, allows for excellent and long-lasting results. As with all diseases, the more advanced the condition becomes, the more difficult it is to achieve ideal outcomes.
How periodontitis is treated
The main treatment for periodontitis involves the removal of local inflammatory factors, such as bacterial plaque and the tartar deposits on which it accumulates.
It should also be noted that the overall oral condition may be influenced by the relationship between the upper and lower arches, as well as systemic conditions such as diabetes or harmful habits such as smoking.
How it can be prevented
Preventing periodontitis is absolutely possible.
The first step involves proper daily oral hygiene performed by the patient at home. When carried out correctly, it provides excellent results for oral health.
For this reason, it is essential that patients are properly instructed in effective brushing techniques, as well as the use of additional cleaning devices recommended by the dentist or dental hygienist.
Another key tool in preventing periodontitis is regular professional dental check-ups, along with professional hygiene sessions, which are essential to support home care.
Regular monitoring and, when necessary, targeted treatments help maintain a high level of cleanliness and oral health, effectively reducing inflammation and preventing the onset or progression of periodontal disease.
