Description:
Periodontitis, or Pyorrhea, is a disease involving inflammation of the gingiva, which, often persisting unnoticed for many years in a patient, can result in loss of clinical periodontal attachment between the teeth and the surrounding alveolar bone.

Symptoms may include the following:

• occasional redness or bleeding of gums while brushing teeth, using dental floss or biting into hard food;
• occasional gum swellings that recur;
• halitosis, or bad breath, and a persistant bad taste in the mouth;
• gingival recession, resulting in apparent lengthening of teeth;
• deep pockets between the teeth and the gums;
• loose teeth, in the later stages.

Prevention:
Daily oral hygiene measures to prevent periodontal disease include:

• brushing properly on a regular basis (at least twice daily);
• flossing daily and using interdental brushes , as well as cleaning behind the last tooth in each quarter;
• using an antiseptic mouthwash
• regular dental check-ups and professional teeth cleaning as required.
  

Dental check-ups serve to monitor the person's oral hygiene methods and levels of attachment around teeth, identify any early signs of periodontitis, and monitor response to treatment.