To get an exact idea of what periodonticsis, we must understand what it involves. It is basically the area of dentistry that deals with the periodontium, which consists of the tissues surrounding the teeth to support it.

These tissues sometimes get affected by different kinds of inflammatory diseases and can cause what is known as periodontitis. A person who treats periodontitis is called a periodontist and is basically a dentist that is a specialized expert in the treatment of diseases of the periodontium.

Know More About Your Periodontium

There are four different types of tissues that come together to make the periodontium complete. They are the gums called the gingera, then comes the layer that covers the root of the tooth, which is called the cementum.

Next is a soft tissue that you find cushioned between the bones holding the tooth and its root. This is the periodontal ligament and finally the alveolac bone which is the main part of the jawbone that holds the root of the tooth in place.

These tissues help us to eat by bearing the impact of the force we exert when we chew or bite. But due to inflammatory diseases, these tissues weaken causing the teeth to become loose and result in its fall.

Most of these inflammatory diseases are caused by bacteria. There are fundamentally two types of inflammatory diseases and these are diseases that affect the tissues and gingivitis, which affects the gums.

What Causes Periodontitis?

Periodontitis is generally caused by bacterial infections. This inflammation caused due to the disease results in the swollen and reddish gums that ultimately destroy the tissues and the bone called the periodontal ligament.

This is a very serious condition that leads to tooth loss and is one of the most common causes for the loss of the tooth. Another reason is plaque, which is a soft sticky and colorless matter produced due to bacteria. The build up of plaque, if not removed regularly from time to time, can harden and form tartar, which can hasten the tooth loss.

Keep Away Periodontitis!

Since it is known that the formation of bacteria is the root cause for inflammatory diseases, these can be avoided if proper care and cleanliness of the teeth is maintained.

Moreover, the general health of the individual too plays an important role in keeping away oral diseases like periodontitis and gingivitis. Children too are quite susceptible and need utmost care throughout as they are unaware of the symptoms which do not show up until late in life.