If left untreated, it can trigger heart disease

The precursor to periodontitis is gingivitis. This is an inflammation of the gums. Bleeding gums and unpleasant bad breath are usually the first signs. If this gingivitis is not treated in time, the inflammation spreads from the gums to the tooth bed, the gums detach from the tooth over time - a so-called gingival pocket develops in which the bacteria collect and multiply. The gums recede, the teeth lose their hold and fall out.

Risk of heart attack

But untreated periodontitis causes even more damage to the human body. It is now known that constant inflammation increases the risk of heart attack, pneumonia and diabetes. That's why you should see a doctor immediately at the first signs, such as swollen and reddened gums or bleeding gums. And this is how periodontitis is treated: First the doctor scrapes out the gum pockets, then the patient is given a strong antibiotic.