periodontitis

noun

peri·​odon·​ti·​tis ˌper-ē-(ˌ)ō-ˌdän-ˈtī-təs How to pronounce periodontitis (audio)
: inflammation of the supporting structures of the teeth and especially the periodontal membrane

Examples of periodontitis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Mild gum disease can advance to periodontitis, which can cause your teeth to fall out in its most advanced stage.4 Tooth decay is a process that happens over time. Sherri Gordon, Health, 14 Aug. 2024 Smoking status: Of current smokers in the survey, 62% had periodontitis. Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 3 July 2024 Age: About 60% of adults ages 65 or older develop periodontitis. Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 3 July 2024 In periodontitis, bacteria can lodge deeper into the gums, causing further inflammation and tooth decay. Claire Bugos, Verywell Health, 8 Apr. 2024 See all Example Sentences for periodontitis 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'periodontitis.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

New Latin

First Known Use

1870, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of periodontitis was in 1870

Dictionary Entries Near periodontitis

Cite this Entry

“Periodontitis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/periodontitis. Accessed 4 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

periodontitis

noun
peri·​odon·​ti·​tis ˌper-ē-(ˌ)ō-ˌdän-ˈtīt-əs How to pronounce periodontitis (audio)
: inflammation of the periodontium and especially chronic inflammation that typically follows untreated gingivitis and that results in progressive destruction of the periodontal ligament, formation of pockets around the teeth, and resorption of alveolar bone chiefly in a horizontal direction with loosening or loss of teeth

called also pericementitis

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