Periodontitis (meaning “inflammation around the teeth”) is the second most prevalent disease worldwide. Only tooth decay is more common. It is implicated in several diseases, including Alzheimer’s, and can cause complications in pregnant and diabetic patients. Having periodontitis doubles your risk of heart disease and may increase your risk of stroke. Periodontal disease is progressive. There are seven stages of periodontitis; only the first stage, gingivitis, is fully reversible. If left unchecked, periodontal disease leads to loss of bone mass and even teeth.
What Is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is characterized by swollen, tender, or bleeding gums. This stage of the disease is named for the bacterium associated with it, Porphyromonas gingivalis. P. gingivalis is found in the digestive and respiratory tracts as well as the mouth. If it enters the bloodstream, it can cause systemic inflammation. This reactive inflammation is implicated in rheumatoid arthritis, atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), and aspiration pneumonia.
