Periodontal Disease: Stages & Treatment

Periodontal Disease: Stages & Treatment

Periodontal disease is a very common condition and affects your gum tissues. It occurs without any warning signs in the beginning and can be very devastating in the long run. The disease occurs in stages and is very harmless in the initial stages. However, it can even lead to tooth loss if left unchecked. Our dentists at Magnolia Dental have provided all the information you need related to disease in this blog.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal (gum) disease, characterized by swollen gum tissues around the gum line, can affect the jawbone by triggering tooth loss or requiring tooth removal. Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that develops when teeth are not properly cleaned. The disease-causing germs are attracted to food remnants and excessive plaque buildup. Gingivitis, or the early stage of periodontal disease, is identified by inflamed, red, and bleeding gums.

What Are The Stages Of Periodontal Disease?

Gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis are the three stages of this disease. According to some dental care professionals, there are four stages of periodontal disease, ranging from the mildest to the most serious.

Stage 1: Gingivitis

This is the first stage of the disease and can be identified by puffy or inflamed gum tissues, red gums, gums that bleed during brushing and flossing, and halitosis. Gingivitis is generally the swelling of the gingiva caused by plaque accumulation at the gum line. When plaque is not removed by brushing and flossing regularly, toxins are produced, irritating the gingival tissues and causing gingivitis.

Gingivitis is completely treatable if it does not progress to the point of jawbone and loss of connective tissue. This stage of periodontal disease can be reversed with immediate treatment for any resultant tooth damage.

Gum Treatment for Gingivitis:  Follow a good and proper dental care routine and you might be able to treat gingivitis and restore your oral health. Brushing and flossing are essential for removing food particles, chunks, and bacteria from between the teeth and preventing the bacterial infection from progressing. It is always important to contact your Mabank dentist for a deeper tooth cleaning and examination whenever you detect the signs and symptoms of gingivitis.

Stage 2: Periodontitis

Periodontitis signifies the transition from mild to moderate periodontal disease. Increased gum inflammation and redness are indicators of periodontitis. Gums can also bleed from a little bump or during brushing or flossing. Furthermore, pockets form beneath the gum line, allowing more trapped food and plaque to accumulate. Periodontitis can also be characterized by pain or damage to the gum tissues, accompanying jawbones and fibers.

Gum Treatment for Periodontitis: In this stage, the infection has gone deeper into the gingiva and jawbones, requiring professional dental care. Periodontitis treatment involves “scaling” and “root planing,” or deeper cleaning, to remove plaque accumulation and prevent the spread of infection.

Stage 3: Advanced Periodontitis

Periodontal disease has reached its final stage here. The disease-causing germs work their way into the gums, leading to complete loss of connective tissues, jawbone, and gingival tissue. There is a higher chance of suffering from shifting teeth and tooth loss at this stage  Other dental issues include loose teeth, intense toothaches, and persistent halitosis. Patients also experience severe discomfort while eating from weak and highly sensitive teeth.

Gum Treatment for Advanced Periodontitis: Before you reach the final stages of periodontal disease, get dental treatment as soon as possible. Only surgical techniques or laser therapy will be able to treat this deep infection once it has reached this level. The damaged teeth that cannot be rescued by treatment are removed by your  Mabank dentist. We suggest that you visit your dentist in Mabank for regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Early diagnosis can help in the treatment of periodontal disease in the early stages before it turns into a serious dental condition.
We hope this blog has helped you to understand more about periodontal disease. Book an appointment with us at Magnolia Dental if you are looking for the best gum treatment in Mabank, TX.