pyorrhea

dentistry

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Last updated

July 13, 2026

Quick Summary

Pyorrhea, also known as periodontitis, is an inflammation of the soft tissues surrounding the teeth. It begins with the buildup of bacterial plaque below the gum line, which irritates and erodes these tissues. If left untreated, the gums recede, exposing the teeth's roots, and the bone supporting the teeth can be destroyed, leading to tooth loss.1

Risk factors include smoking, diabetes, hormonal changes, and certain medications. Poor dental hygiene is the primary cause, but genetic susceptibility may also play a role. Periodontics is the dental specialty focused on preventing, diagnosing, and treating these diseases.12

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dentistry
Periodontics
disease is periodontitis, commonly called pyorrhea, an inflammatory condition usually produced by local irritants. Periodontitis, if untreated, destroys the periodontal tissues and is a major cause of the loss of teeth in adults.
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disease is periodontitis, commonly called pyorrhea, an inflammatory condition usually produced by local irritants. Periodontitis, if untreated, destroys the periodontal tissues and is a major cause of the loss of teeth in adults.
Read More