"Can Periodontitis be Left Untreated?"

Periodontitis generally requires active treatment and cannot be left untreated. The early symptoms of periodontitis mainly manifest as bleeding gums while brushing, swollen and red gums, accompanied by halitosis, etc. Due to the absence of pain, these symptoms are often overlooked. However, long-term neglect of treatment and allowing inflammation to progress can lead to the following consequences:

1. Swollen and Painful Gums:

Acute episodes of periodontitis often result in severe pain in the teeth and gums, facial swelling, fever, and other symptoms. Recurrent periodontal inflammation may also lead to swollen and painful gums until abscess formation, which presents as a large swelling on the gums and can even result in rapid and extensive destruction of local bone.

2. Periodontal Pockets and Pus Discharge:

The progression of inflammation can lead to the destruction of the periodontal ligament, further separating the gums from the tooth roots and forming periodontal pockets in the gingival sulcus. After the formation of periodontal pockets, ulcers and purulent secretions are prone to develop inside, leading to pus discharge upon pressing the gums and accompanied by persistent halitosis.

3. Tooth Loosening and Eventual Loss:

Due to the destruction of periodontal tissues and the separation of gums from tooth roots, patients often experience a weakened bite, tooth loosening, and displacement, ultimately leading to tooth loss. Although the early symptoms of periodontitis may not seem severe, they should not be ignored, and medical attention should be sought as soon as possible.