Periodontitis: Not Caused by Age – It’s Caused by Neglect

Periodontitis is a serious gum disease that affects the tissues and bone that support your teeth. It usually starts with gingivitis, which is the early stage of gum inflammation caused by plaque — a sticky layer of bacteria that forms on your teeth every day. If plaque isn’t removed through daily brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar. Over time, this buildup causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, leading to deeper infection, bone loss, and even tooth loss.

One of the biggest misconceptions about periodontitis is that it’s simply a natural part of getting older. That’s not true. While older adults are more likely to have periodontitis, age is not the cause. The real causes are poor oral hygiene, smoking, diabetes, stress, genetics, hormonal changes, and even some medications that reduce saliva flow.

So, why do more older people have it? Often, it’s because they’ve had more time for plaque to build up, or because they’ve had lapses in dental care over the years. But younger people can get periodontitis too, especially if they don’t brush and floss regularly or if they have other risk factors.

What are the signs to watch for?

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums

• Bad breath that doesn’t go away

• Gums pulling away from your teeth

• Loose or shifting teeth

• Pain when chewing

If you notice these symptoms, don’t ignore them. Periodontitis can lead to serious health problems beyond your mouth — it has been linked to heart disease, stroke, and poor blood sugar control in diabetes.

The good news? Periodontitis is preventable and treatable, especially when caught early. Here’s how to protect yourself:

• Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

• Listen to you dentist and visit them every 6 months before your condition worsen

• Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth

• Get regular dental checkups and cleanings

• Don’t smoke or vape — it increases your risk

• Manage health conditions like diabetes

  
  

In short, periodontitis doesn’t happen just because you’re getting older — it happens when oral hygiene and care are neglected. Take care of your mouth now, and your teeth and gums will thank you for years to come.