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Periodontal Gum
Disease in Stages |
| Although it has three
stages, gum disease is one
continuous process. Each stage is
characterized by what you see and feel
in your mouth, and by what's happening
under your gum line. Remember, even if
you don't notice any symptoms, you may
still have a form of periodontal
disease, and it's possible to have
more than one stage of gum disease
around different teeth at one time. |
| Periodontal
disease starts when tartar
and bacteria under the gum line
lead to infection (overgrowth of
bacteria). As the body fights the
infection, the gums become inflamed
(irritated and swollen). Pockets form
between tooth and gum, making
plaque harder to remove. As the
disease advances, bone damage occurs and
can lead to tooth loss. |
Stage 1 - Gingivitis
|
 This
is the mildest form of periodontal
disease. The gum becomes inflamed.
The space between gum and tooth
deepens, forming a pocket. Gums may
become red and swollen, or may bleed
when probed. Or, there may be no
symptoms. Gingivitis can often be
reversed with dental cleanings and
regular brushing and flossing. Left
untreated, it can progress to periodontitis. |
Stage 2 - Periodontitis
|
 With
periodontitis, infection and
inflammation spread to the bone
supporting the teeth. Ligaments
break down and the gums may recede
(shrink back). Pockets deepen
and can be difficult to keep clean.
Redness, swelling, and bleeding may
develop or worsen. Bacteria
multiply, and infection begins to
destroy the bone. As bone is
destroyed, teeth may start to feel
loose. |
Stage 3 - Advanced Periodontitis
|
 As
periodontitis advances,
pockets deepen even more and can
fill with pus. Around the roots
of the teeth, the gums may start
to swell. Bone loss
continues. The teeth may feel
sensitive to heat or cold, and
may hurt when brushed. Teeth
loosen due to loss of bone
and ligament. In some cases, teeth
may need to be removed to keep
periodontal disease from
spreading. |
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Gum disease may have more of an
effect on your health than you
realize. That's because infection
and inflammation don't just
affect one part of the body. They
may also raise the risk of heart
disease and other serious
health problems. The link is not
completely understood. But good
dental care may protect more
than just your teeth. |
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Contact Dr. Carol Stevens
to find out
about treatment options available
for periodontal gum disease and
how to prevent further damage to areas
of your mouth that have been affected by
gum disease. |
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