periodontitis
/ˌpɛri.oʊˌdɑnˈtaɪtɪs/
noun
- A serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth, often causing tooth loss if untreated.
- Smoking increases the risk of periodontitis and makes it harder to treat.
- The dentist said my periodontitis was caused by years of poor brushing habits.
- If you don't treat gingivitis, it can develop into periodontitis.