Also known as gum disease, the periodontal condition is a common yet frequently disregarded situation numerous individuals in Show Low, AZ suffer from. It is a progressive disease that can cause serious dental problems if not diagnosed and treated early. Knowing the types of stages of gum disease is very important since this gives you a stronger chance to maintain your health and avoid problems with your oral health as recommended by Show Low dentist. This article provides insight into what the various stages of gum disease look and feel like, along with treatment options and more.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that support and surround your teeth. It is mainly caused due to plaque, a sticky layer of bacteria that forms on the teeth. When plaque is not thoroughly removed with regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed during a professional cleaning. As for gum disease, the bacteria in plaque and tartar produce toxins that irritate and inflame the gums.
Gingivitis
This stage involves inflammation of the gums without damage to the bone. Gingivitis is marked by red, swollen gums that oftentimes bleed during brushing or flossing. Bad breath is a manifestation as well. Gingivitis is most often caused by poor oral hygiene practices that allow plaque a sticky, colorless film of bacteria to build up on teeth, leading to inflammation. Just as thankfully, gingivitis is reversible with appropriate oral hygiene.
Early Periodontitis
Untreated gingivitis may advance to early periodontitis. This level of inflammation affects the bone and supporting tissues of the teeth. The symptoms are persistent bad breath, receding gums, and mild bone loss around the teeth. Gums may also begin to pull away from the teeth, creating spaces that can become infected. Early periodontitis requires more intensive cleaning procedures (scaling and root planning) than those needed for gingivitis to remove plaque and tartar on and below the gum line. You may also be given antibiotics to manage the infection.
Moderate Periodontitis
The damage worsens in moderate periodontitis. The spaces between the teeth and gums deepen, and bones moderately lose mass. Symptoms include deeper pockets, gum recession, and loose teeth. At this point, the infection can wreak havoc beneath the bone and connective tissues that support your teeth. Treatment usually consists of scaling and root planning, but surgery — flap surgery to eliminate or decrease pocket depth or bone grafts to replace lost bone — can be necessary as well.
Advanced Periodontitis
The most serious type of gum disease is periodontitis. The infection has severely destroyed the bone and other tissues supporting the teeth, creating deep pockets of infection, gross gum recession, and teeth that are loose or shifting from normal positions. You may also see pus around the teeth and gums, and tooth loss is common. Most cases of advanced periodontitis require surgical procedures to clean (periodontal surgery) and regenerate lost bone and tissue. It should be noted that tooth extraction may be required in more severe cases.
Prevention and Maintenance
To prevent gum disease, you must be committed to good oral hygiene practices. Brushing twice a day (at least), flossing at least once a day, and visiting the dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups are key.
Each stage of gum disease is important to know to preserve your oral health if you live in Show Low, AZ. With early detection and treatment, the disease process can stop and the health of your teeth and gums preserved. If you have symptoms of gum disease, such as red, swollen, or bleeding gums, see your dentist as soon as possible. Fortunately, with the right amount of care and attention, you can enjoy a smile that is both healthy and beautiful.
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