Abstract

Periodontal disease, commonly referred to as gum disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the supporting structures of the teeth, primarily the gums and alveolar bone. It ranges from mild gingivitis to severe periodontitis, leading to tooth loss if left untreated. This article explores the etiology, pathophysiology, clinical features, diagnosis, treatment modalities, and preventive strategies associated with periodontal disease. Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, encompasses a range of inflammatory conditions affecting the supporting structures of the teeth, primarily the gingiva (gums) and alveolar bone. As a major cause of tooth loss in adults worldwide, it presents both a public health concern and a clinical challenge. Periodontal disease typically begins as gingivitis—characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums and can progress to periodontitis if left untreated. Periodontitis involves the destruction of the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone, leading to tooth mobility and eventual tooth loss. The etiology of periodontal disease is multifactorial, involving complex interactions between bacterial biofilm (dental plaque), host immune response, genetic predisposition, and environmental factors such as smoking, diabetes, and poor oral hygiene. Recent research has also implicated systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes mellitus in the bidirectional relationship with periodontitis, highlighting its importance beyond oral health. Periodontal disease, commonly referred to as gum disease, encompasses a range of inflammatory conditions affecting the tissues surrounding the teeth. Initiated primarily by microbial plaque accumulation, the disease progresses through stages from gingivitis to more severe periodontitis, which can lead to tooth mobility and eventual tooth loss if untreated. Beyond oral health, emerging research links periodontal disease with systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Early diagnosis, preventive care, and effective treatment strategies including scaling and root planning, antimicrobial therapy, and in advanced cases, surgical intervention are essential for halting disease progression and restoring periodontal health. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the etiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic methods, and modern treatment approaches for periodontal disease, emphasizing the importance of an interdisciplinary approach and patient education for long-term disease management. By enhancing our understanding of periodontal disease and the interconnectedness between oral and systemic health, clinicians and public health professionals can better develop interventions to reduce its burden and improve patient outcomes.