Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is a common problem that can lead to tooth loss if not treated. It’s important to understand the stages and treatments so you can keep your gums and teeth healthy. Catching gum disease early and getting the right care can help you avoid serious issues and keep your smile looking great.
Stages of Periodontal Disease
Stage 1: Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. It happens when plaque, a sticky layer of bacteria, builds up on your teeth and makes your gums swollen and red. Your gums may bleed when you brush or floss.
The good news is that gingivitis can be reversed with good oral care. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing every day can remove plaque. Seeing your dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups is also key to preventing gingivitis. Your dentist might suggest using a mouthwash to help reduce bacteria.
Stage 2: Early Periodontitis
If gingivitis isn’t treated, it can turn into early periodontitis. At this stage, plaque hardens into tartar, which irritates the gums even more. The gums start to pull away from the teeth, creating pockets where bacteria can collect. You may also start to lose some bone that supports your teeth. Symptoms include bad breath, receding gums, and gums that bleed during brushing or flossing.
Treatment includes a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing to remove tartar and bacteria from under the gums. Your dentist might also give you antibiotics to help control the infection and reduce swelling.
Stage 3: Moderate Periodontitis
Moderate periodontitis causes more damage to the gums and the structures that hold your teeth in place. The pockets around your teeth get deeper, and more bone is lost. Your teeth may start to feel loose. Symptoms include gum recession, deep pockets around the teeth, and increased tooth movement.
Treatment includes scaling and root planing along with antibiotics to fight the infection. In some cases, surgery might be needed to reduce the size of the pockets and restore gum health. One option is flap surgery, where the gums are lifted back to remove tartar and then stitched back into place.
Stage 4: Advanced Periodontitis
Advanced periodontitis is the most serious stage. By this point, there’s been a lot of damage to both the gums and the bone that supports your teeth. Teeth may be loose or fall out. You might have pus around your gums, which is a sign of a bad infection. Symptoms include severe pain, trouble chewing, and very noticeable gum recession.
Treatment for advanced periodontitis usually involves surgery to repair the gums and bone. This could include flap surgery or bone grafts to replace lost bone and reduce the size of the pockets. In some cases, teeth may need to be removed to prevent the infection from spreading.
At our Columbia dental office, we offer full treatment and preventive care for gum disease. Our team provides personalized care to meet each patient’s needs. Contact us today to set up a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.