K05: Gingivitis and periodontal diseases
K05.3: Chronic periodontitis
The tooth is anchored firmly in the jawbone by the periodontal ligament. This ligament includes, among other things, the outermost layer of the tooth root and the gums. The periodontal ligament also includes the hole in the jawbone in which the tooth is located.
The periodontal ligament can become inflamed for instance if you do not clean your teeth properly. In that case, the inflammation develops due to the bacteria found in plaque. The periodontal ligament can also become inflamed as a result of other diseases.
It is common for the gums to be inflamed initially before other parts of the periodontal ligament are inflamed. If the gums are inflamed, they can be reddened and bleed more rapidly.
If the periodontal ligament is inflamed for a long time, the gums may retract from the tooth necks. The teeth may then also become loose. Every tooth consists of 3 sections: the crown, the tooth neck (cervix) and the tooth root. The crown is the visible part of the tooth. The tooth neck is covered by the gums. The tooth root keeps the tooth in the jawbone.
Patient Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not intended for self-diagnosis and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health.
If you see an ICD diagnosis code (e.g., on a medical report), be aware that doctors may also include additional indicators to express diagnostic certainty. Only a healthcare professional can interpret these codes accurately in the context of your individual case.
For a complete understanding of your condition and what the diagnosis means for you, please speak directly with your doctor.