Is periodontitis contagious? What are its symptoms, treatment, and consequences? Can I transmit it to my partner or family member? In this article, we will discuss these questions for a better understanding.
What is periodontitis?
Periodontitis is a disease that affects the gums and results from the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria in the teeth and gums, which accumulate due to inadequate dental hygiene. The immune system responds to this excessive accumulation of bacteria with an inflammatory response.
The early signs of periodontitis resemble those of gingivitis, but it is a more severe pathology that affects the alveolar bone and other tissues.
Symptoms of periodontitis
Healthy gums are firm, fit properly around the teeth, and have a color ranging from light to dark pink. Meanwhile, affected gums tend to bleed and swell, and other signs of periodontitis include:
- Sensitive gums
- Bleeding after brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath
- Pus between teeth and gums
- Loose or broken teeth
- Pain when chewing
- New spaces between teeth
- Receding gums.
When can periodontitis be transmitted? Is Periodontitis disease contagious?
As an infectious disease, periodontitis can be transmitted to another person through deep kissing, due to the large number of bacteria (approximately 500 types) and pathogens that exist in our mouth. However, transmission only occurs if the recipient has a decrease in local immunity and/or is receiving periodontal treatment. According to studies by the University of Helsinki (Finland), carried out by Birgitta Vol Troil-Lindén, living with a person who has periodontitis for a considerable time can increase the probability of developing the infection by 20 to 30%.
Despite this, it is not necessary or effective to avoid physical contact with our romantic partner if they have periodontitis. Instead, we must take preventive measures, such as regularly visiting the dentist. It is also important to consider certain underlying factors, such as smoking, advanced age, malnutrition, stress, poor oral hygiene, and excessive alcohol consumption, as these can increase the likelihood of developing gum infections, including periodontitis. Therefore, it is crucial to take preventive measures to maintain good oral health, regardless of whether our partner has this disease or not.
Transmission of bacteria in the family
As we have indicated, harmful bacteria can damage the gums and provoke an inflammatory response due to infection, in addition to being transmitted through saliva in large quantities.
- If a family member has periodontitis, the bacteria can spread from mouth to mouth through the use of utensils and glasses.
- In the case of our romantic partner, as we have already detailed, the risk of contagion is higher through kissing.
Therefore, it is important to take preventive measures to maintain good oral health.
Prevention measures against contagion
To avoid contagion, it is important to take preventative measures. Here are some tips:
- Both gingivitis and periodontitis must be controlled, so it is important to follow the appropriate treatment and improve oral hygiene habits.
- People should pay special attention to their oral hygiene if they have prolonged and close contact with someone who has periodontitis, as there is a risk of transmission of bacteria through saliva.
- It is important to attend regular dental check-ups if you notice bleeding, redness, gum inflammation, dental sensitivity, bad breath, etc. If gingivitis is detected before it evolves into periodontitis, tooth loss can be prevented.
There is no need to be alarmed if we suffer from a dental disease, as long as the appropriate preventive measures are taken. It is not necessary to avoid physical contact or sharing utensils and food, but it is essential that the disease is well controlled and that all family members maintain good oral hygiene. In this way, future complications can be prevented and optimal oral health can be guaranteed for everyone.
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