Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults and affects nearly 75% of people to some degree. The best way to identify if you are affected by gum disease is to schedule routine dental appointments. The most serious problems caused by gum disease occur in the later and advanced stages of the condition, but if Dr. Brett Jacobson and Dr. James Drake or one of our experienced dentists catches it early enough, gum disease can be cleansed and maintained to a level that keeps you healthy. To better help you understand gum disease, you need to know the primary stages of the disease, which we have listed below.
The Stages of Gum Disease
Healthy Gums and Teeth – This is the stage we want you to be in! Your gums are healthy and there is no excessive plaque, decay or buildup around the teeth, and there is no inflammation present. While in this stage, your smile is in its best condition!
Gingivitis – The first stage of gum disease, this causes inflammation around the gums and an excessive buildup of plaque around the teeth. Your gums will start to pull away from the teeth expose more of the sensitive tooth root to damage and decay. However, this stage of gum disease is reversible if caught early! When treated by one of our experienced dentists at Aesthetic Family Dentistry, we will be able to eradicate the disease and put you back in the healthy state!
Periodontitis – This stage of gum disease cannot be cured but it can be controlled with proper care from our dentists. More advanced than gingivitis, your gums will begin to pull away from the teeth, and you often notice bleeding when brushing or eating and teeth feel sensitive to hot or cold beverages. Minor jaw bone deterioration may begin and make some of your teeth feel loose.
Advanced Periodontitis – The most severe stage of gum disease, advanced periodontitis leads to excessive jaw bone deterioration, gums that pull far away from the teeth, loose teeth and even complete tooth loss. Advanced treatments will need to be performed to save your smile and you will need to receive routine periodontal maintenance to ensure the gum disease does not re-infect the gums and teeth.
Want to Know If You Are Affected by Gum Disease?
Schedule an appointment now at Park West Dental Care to get checked for gum disease.