What is periodontitis (gum disease)?

Our patients often ask us… so… what is periodontitis?

Periodontitis is a concern for many people, often accompanied by understandable questions and fears. If you are reading this article, you or someone close to you have probably noticed symptoms that worried you: bleeding gums, persistent bad breath or teeth that seem to be moving.

It is natural to feel concerned, but the good news is that periodontitis is a well-understood and treatable condition. At NeaBios Dental Clinic, in the heart of Rome EUR Laurentina, we help families from EUR, Tre Fontane, Torrino and Spinaceto every day as they successfully tackle this problem.

In this article you will find a complete guide to help you understand what periodontitis really is, how to recognise it and, above all, what to do to protect the smiles of your whole family.

Why does periodontitis develop?

Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease that affects the tissues supporting the teeth: the gums, the periodontal ligament and the jawbone around the roots (alveolar bone). As studies confirm, and as Dr Nihad Pljevljak sees every day at NeaBios, the main cause is the build-up of plaque and tartar along the gum line: in plaque, the bacterial flora loses its balance (dysbiosis) and triggers inflammation.

When plaque is not removed effectively by brushing and flossing, bacteria produce toxins that irritate the gums, causing gingivitis. If it is neglected, this inflammation spreads deeper, creating "pockets" between the tooth and the gum where bacteria multiply undisturbed.

Risk factors include smoking, stress, certain general health conditions such as diabetes, genetic predisposition and poor oral hygiene. A large survey by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found periodontitis in about 47% of adults over 30, but the good news is that it can largely be prevented with daily oral hygiene and regular professional cleaning.

What should you do straight away about periodontitis?

If you think you may have symptoms of periodontitis, do not wait. The warning signs include red, swollen gums, bleeding when brushing, persistent bad breath, sensitive teeth and, in advanced cases, loose teeth.

The first step is to step up your oral hygiene at home: brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss every day and add an antibacterial mouthwash. Rinsing with warm salt water can feel soothing for a while, but it does not treat the inflammation.

However, it is essential to see a specialist dentist. Our patients from EUR often ask us whether they can "treat themselves" for periodontitis, but the truth is that only professional treatment can remove the tartar below the gum line and stop the disease from progressing.

Professional treatments

At our dental clinic in Rome Laurentina, we offer a modern, personalised approach to treating periodontitis. Treatment always begins with a thorough assessment, including X-rays and periodontal probing to establish how far the problem has spread.

Initial treatment involves professional scaling (tartar removal) and root planing, procedures that remove plaque and tartar even from the deepest areas. We use technologies such as ultrasound and, where indicated, laser, for accurate and comfortable treatment.

In more complex cases, minimally invasive surgery may be needed to regenerate damaged tissue. Modern periodontal surgery, thanks to the innovative techniques available at our clinic, can achieve good results with relatively short healing times.

The advantage of choosing a specialist clinic like NeaBios is the multidisciplinary approach: every case is studied in detail to create a tailored treatment plan that takes into account the specific needs of the patient and their family.

Prevention for the whole family

Preventing periodontitis starts at home and involves all ages. For adults, daily oral hygiene must be thorough: brushing twice a day for two minutes, cleaning between the teeth and regular check-ups, usually every six months or as often as your dentist advises.

For children, it is important to build good habits from an early age. Teach them the correct brushing technique, and make oral hygiene fun with colourful toothbrushes and fluoride toothpastes suited to their age. The families from Cecchignola, Montagnola and Fonte Ostiense who come to us know how important it is to take children to the dentist after their first tooth appears, and no later than their first birthday.

Diet plays a crucial role: limit sugar and refined carbohydrates, choose fruit and vegetables rich in vitamin C, and make sure the whole family drinks enough water. Avoid smoking and manage stress with regular physical activity.

Regular check-ups are essential: they make it possible to spot any problems early and to keep up regular professional cleaning. In our experience, patients who follow a personalised prevention programme rarely develop severe forms of periodontitis.

Periodontitis in a nutshell?

Periodontitis does not need to frighten you: it is a common condition, but one that can be managed well when it is dealt with promptly and with the right expertise. What really matters is not to ignore the first symptoms and to rely on qualified professionals who can offer you personalised care.

Remember that the health of your teeth is closely linked to your general wellbeing: taking care of your smile means taking care of yourself and your family. With modern technologies and the right preventive approach, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy for life.

The road to recovery from periodontitis takes commitment and consistency, but the results are well worth the effort. Many of the families we look after have brought the problem under control and now enjoy good oral health.

Do not wait for the symptoms to get worse: early diagnosis and prompt treatment are your best allies against periodontitis. Your smile, and the smiles of your loved ones, deserve the best care available.

Still have questions about periodontitis?

NeaBios Dental Clinic, directed by Dr Nihad Pljevljak, is the trusted dental practice for families in EUR, Laurentina, Tre Fontane and Torrino.

Our specialists are ready to welcome you with professionalism and warmth, using the latest technologies in a comfortable setting for adults and children.

Book your visit today:

• 📞 Phone: +39 06.50.13.817
• 📱 Mobile: 333.935.8432
• 📍 Address: Via Cesare Pavese 135, 00144 Rome
• 🚇 Easy to reach from Laurentina station (Metro line B)
• 🅿️ Parking available
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Specialists in care for the whole family

Your smile, and your family's smiles, are our priority.

Sources

1. Eke PI, Dye BA, Wei L, et al. Prevalence of periodontitis in adults in the United States: 2009 and 2010. J Dent Res. 2012;91(10):914-920. PubMed
2. Kinane DF, Stathopoulou PG, Papapanou PN. Periodontal diseases. Nat Rev Dis Primers. 2017;3:17038. PubMed
3. Nascimento GG, Leite FRM, Vestergaard P, et al. Does diabetes increase the risk of periodontitis? A systematic review and meta-regression analysis of longitudinal prospective studies. Acta Diabetol. 2018;55(7):653-667. PubMed
4. American Dental Association. Toothbrushes. Oral Health Topics. 2026. ADA
5. American Dental Association. Your baby's first dental visit. MouthHealthy. 2026. ADA