Periodontal disease, commonly called gum disease, is extremely common can be a menace if not treated properly. Age is no bar when it comes to gum disease and can lead to premature tooth loss. It could also pave the way for other underlying medical conditions. Hence, it is necessary to cure the disease at its inception. This disease occurs in stages and learning about them could help in proper diagnosis. Let us find out the stages of periodontal disease.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Before jumping into the stages, let us focus on what periodontal disease is. Gum disease is essentially an infection of the gum tissues. It could cause serious damage if the infection spreads. The advanced stages of gum disease come with a lot of pain and discomfort. It is difficult to manage the disease in the advanced stages and surgeries are required. However, you can manage and even reverse the disease in its initial stages.
What Are The Different Stages Of Gum Disease?
Trying to figure out if you are suffering from gum infection? Don’t worry because our dentists at Thousand Oaks Dentistry have got your back. The different stages of the disease have been mentioned below for better clarity. Consult your dental hygienist accordingly and use their tips and tricks to prevent this disease. Depending on the intensity of the infection, gum disease can be divided into four stages.
Gingivitis
The first stage of the infection is known as Gingivitis. This is the only stage where the symptoms can be reversed. The most common cause of gingivitis is excessive plaque buildup. Your poor oral care routine could be the reason behind your infection. Improper and irregular brushing and flossing lead to plaque accumulation. Your gums start to discharge a milky white substance which causes halitosis. If your bad breath persists then it is a high probability that you might be suffering from gingivitis. You must consult your dentist immediately before your infection turns irreversible. An effective gingivitis treatment plan can save you from potential tooth loss.
Early Periodontitis
Missed out on your window for gingivitis treatment? Do not worry. Even in the second stage, the infection can be managed. At this stage, the plaque hardens into tartar. The infection could spread to your bones at this level. Pale gums and gum pockets are the telltale signs of early periodontitis. Periodontal Therapy will help you and stop your condition from worsening.
Moderate Periodontitis
This is where it starts to get serious. Your mouth starts to taste strange and your gum pockets start getting larger than usual. Your teeth might also start to wobble at this stage. Rush to the dentist whenever you notice these changes. A deep-cleaning treatment can get rid of the bacterial buildup and provide you some relief. However, if you do not pay heed to the infection at this stage, then you will be suffering from shifting teeth. You will notice specks of blood in your oral cavity most of the time.
Advanced Periodontitis
This is the final stage and there is no turning back from here. You will be in a lot of pain at this level. Your gums will be swollen and ooze pus continuously. The risk of bone loss is severely increased and halitosis is very common. Advanced Periodontitis requires dental surgery to save you from potential tooth loss. Lack of treatment will cause gum recession and create dental health complications in the future.
Now that you are aware of the different stages what are you waiting for? Go to your dentist and get it treated. Looking for the best gum disease treatment in Sun Prairie, WI? Contact our team of dentists at Thousand Oaks Dentistry and avail our top-notch dental care services.
