Causes of Periodontitis
Poor oral hygiene, along with an untreated infection and inflammation of gums (gingivitis), causes periodontitis.
Poor oral hygiene is the key cause of gingivitis, and subsequently more severe periodontitis.
The bacteria in the mouth, along with mucus and other particles, constantly produce a sticky, “plaque” on teeth. Effective brushing and flossing must help in getting rid of the “plaque”. However, improper brushing and poor oral hygiene can cause accumulation of plaque that can eventually harden and form “tartar”. The bacteria in tartar produce toxins to cause inflammation of the gums, called gingivitis.
Periodontitis follows untreated or delayed treatment of gingivitis, the infection and inflammation of gums. The infection and inflammation, if left untreated, spreads from the gums (gingiva) to the periodontium, the ligament tissues and bone that surround and support the teeth. This causes loss of support to the teeth and they eventually become loose and fall out. Periodontitis is the chief cause of teeth loss in adults.
