The cause of periodontal diseases
Periodontal diseases are caused by microorganisms that are normal habitats of the oral cavity. In case of poor oral hygiene, they multiply and form an adhesive membrane on the teeth (i.e., the dental microbial plaque), triggering an inflammatory reaction.
If microbial plaque remains on tooth surface for 2-3 weeks, it causes a local inflammatory reaction which results in gingivitis. Gingivitis has the following symptoms:
- Red, soft, and sensitive gums
- Swelling and bleeding
- Breath malodor
In certain cases, the above-mentioned symptoms are mild and may subside without any intervention.
Although gingivitis is reversible, it is also reported that in half of the cases where patients do not receive the appropriate treatment it turns into periodontitis. In periodontitis, the tooth surrounding bone is resorbed and without the proper treatment it eventually leads to tooth loss.
Even though the main cause of periodontal diseases is the presence of pathogenic bacteria in the oral cavity, smoking, heredity, stress-related factors, diabetes, antidepressant, contraceptive and antihypertensive drugs, pregnancy and hormonal changes are also risk indicators and factors that negatively impact periodontal health.