Periodontitis is a common oral disease caused by bacterial infection that leads to chronic inflammation of the supporting structures around the teeth. It tends to progress slowly, and in the early stages, symptoms may be minimal or even unnoticeable—many people don’t realize they have it.

Common Symptoms of Periodontitis：

1. Bleeding gums: If you notice blood when brushing your teeth or eating, it may be an early sign that your gums are inflamed or infected.

1. Swollen, tender gums: If your gums look red, feel puffy, or hurt when you touch them, they may be reacting to infection or irritation.

2. Bad breath: Caused by bacterial plaque buildup on teeth and gums.

3. Loose teeth: As periodontal tissue breaks down, teeth may start to loosen.

4. Gum recession: If your teeth start to look longer than usual, it could be because your gums are pulling back due to ongoing inflammation.

5. Widened gaps between teeth: Bone and gum loss can lead to larger spaces between teeth.

6. Persistent sensitivity: Teeth may react painfully to hot or cold stimuli.

7. Tooth loss: In severe cases, teeth may fall out due to loss of support.

Why Is Periodontitis Called the “Invisible Threat” to Dental Implants?

1. Increases the risk of implant infection and failure

Since periodontitis is caused by bacterial infection, untreated gum disease can allow bacteria to contaminate the implant site during surgery. This significantly raises the risk of implant failure—meaning both your time and money could go to waste.

2. Compromises implant stability

Ongoing inflammation from uncontrolled periodontitis can damage the tissues around the implant, threatening its long-term stability.

3. Leads to peri-implantitis

This is an inflammatory condition similar to periodontitis that occurs around implants. Symptoms include swollen, bleeding gums.

4. Reduces bone density needed for implants

Successful implants require healthy, dense jawbone for support. Periodontitis can erode this bone, undermining the foundation needed for a stable implant.

5. Effective periodontitis treatment reduces implant risks

Because untreated gum disease threatens implant success, it’s critical to fully treat and control periodontitis before undergoing implant surgery.

How to Treat Periodontitis？

1. Scaling and root planing: The basic and most common treatment, which removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline to reduce bacterial infection.

2. Treatment of periodontal pockets: Mild cases may be managed with antiseptics; deeper pockets may require surgery.

3. Incision and drainage: If abscesses are present, they may need to be drained and the infection cleaned out.

4. Tooth extraction: Severely loosened teeth or those with significant bone loss may need to be removed to prevent further infection.

Daily Oral Care for Periodontitis：

1. Brush correctly: Brushing with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste helps clean your teeth gently while keeping your gums healthy.

2. Use dental floss: Flossing removes debris and bacteria from between teeth—areas that brushing alone can’t reach.

3. Gum massage: Gently massaging the gums regularly can help improve blood circulation and maintain gum health.

4. Rinse after meals: Helps wash away food particles and reduce soft plaque buildup.

5. Avoid smoking and heavy drinking: Both significantly increase the risk of developing or worsening gum disease.

6. Maintain a healthy diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamin C, vitamin D, and calcium to boost your immune system and support gum health.

How to Prevent Periodontitis？

1. Brush properly and regularly: Twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste and a soft toothbrush.

2. Floss or use interdental brushes: To clean between teeth where plaque often accumulates.

3. Get regular dental checkups and cleanings: At least once a year to remove tartar and monitor gum health.

4. Live a healthy lifestyle: Avoid tobacco, limit alcohol, get enough sleep, and manage stress.

5. Watch your diet: Limit sugary foods, and choose foods that promote oral health, like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Final Thoughts

Periodontitis is a chronic oral disease that can quietly damage your teeth and gums if left untreated. Although it may progress slowly and without obvious symptoms at first, it can eventually lead to loose teeth, tooth loss, and complications with dental implants. The good news is that with proper daily care, regular dental visits, and lifestyle changes, periodontitis is both preventable and manageable.If you're considering dental implants or have symptoms of gum disease, it’s essential to address periodontitis first to ensure the long-term success of your oral health—and your implant investment.