Periodontitis

Chronic inflammatory destruction of tooth-supporting tissues

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board

Published: February 1, 2026

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı department. Book Appointment →

What is Periodontitis?

Periodontitis is characterized by clinical attachment loss, increased probing depths and radiographic bone loss.

Staging (I–IV) reflects severity; grading (A–C) reflects progression rate and risk factors (smoking, diabetes).

Main etiology is dysbiotic subgingival biofilm; host inflammatory response determines tissue destruction.

Untreated periodontitis is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults and is linked to systemic effects (cardiovascular risk, glycemic control).

Symptoms

Persistent red, swollen, bleeding gums

Gum recession with visible 'long teeth'

Tooth mobility or drifting

Persistent bad breath and bad taste

Pus discharge from gumline

Pain on chewing, sensitivity with exposed roots

Risk Factors

Smoking and tobacco use

Diabetes mellitus, especially uncontrolled

Genetic susceptibility, family history

Poor oral hygiene, plaque retention factors

Obesity, stress, immunocompromise

Certain medications causing gingival overgrowth

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

Gum bleeding, recession or tooth mobility
Persistent bad breath despite hygiene
Abscess, pus or swelling in the gum

Treatment Methods

Step 1: oral hygiene instruction, professional plaque control, smoking cessation, risk factor management

Step 2: non-surgical subgingival instrumentation (scaling and root planing) with or without adjunct antimicrobials

Step 3: corrective surgical therapy for deep pockets or osseous defects not resolved by non-surgical care

Step 4: supportive periodontal therapy every 3–6 months long-term

Adjuncts: local/systemic antibiotics in aggressive cases, host-modulating therapy per evidence

Diabetes control, nutrition, oral hygiene reinforcement integrated across steps

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Periodontitis is the sixth most prevalent chronic disease worldwide affecting 11% globally and 47% of US adults over 30, characterized by gingival inflammation, attachment loss, alveolar bone destruction, and pocket formation; staged I-IV by severity (CAL, bone loss) and graded A-C by progression rate per 2017 EFP/AAP classification, requiring scaling/root planing, surgical access, and supportive periodontal therapy with adjunctive systemic antibiotics for aggressive forms.

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Diş Eti Hastalıkları (Periodontal Hastalıklar)

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Teeth whitening lightens tooth color using hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide gels. In-office (professional) bleaching uses higher concentrations with light activation for faster results; home bleaching uses custom trays with lower concentrations over 1–4 weeks. Safety depends on healthy teeth, correct concentration, isolation of gums and transient sensitivity management.

Orthodontics

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Orthodontics is the dental specialty that corrects the alignment of the teeth and jaws, providing both aesthetic and functional benefits at any age, from childhood through adulthood.

Gingival Recession (Gum Recession)

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Gingival recession is the apical displacement of the gingival margin with exposure of the root surface. It may be localized or generalized and results from mechanical trauma, periodontal disease, thin biotype or anatomic factors. Recession can cause root sensitivity, caries and aesthetic concerns; management includes cause elimination and surgical root coverage when indicated.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.