Gum disease can be grueling to deal with, but modern dentistry continues to evolve, which has allowed people to get through its different stages. Just like with any other disease, gum disease also has stages, which begin more mildly and end up being pretty severe.
Most people are aware that gum disease is serious, but they may not understand that the different stages outline how bad the disease is. For example, if the gum disease is still during the first phase, then it may not be as bad. However, if it’s in the last stage, it may be harder to treat. Want to know more about these stages? Here, we dive into them one by one so you know exactly what is involved in each!
Understanding these three stages can be helpful if you think that you may be experiencing any gum disease symptoms. Keep reading to find out more!
The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis, which is the earliest and least severe stage. Typically, there is inflammation of the gums, which is caused by a buildup of plaque. The plaque build-up may be a result of poor oral hygiene or cavities from sugar. The plaque has toxins that can cause gingivitis, but thankfully, the disease can be somewhat salvaged since the infection has not reached the bone or connective tissue yet.
The second stage of gum disease happens to be pretty serious. Periodontitis occurs when the supporting bone and fibers that hold the teeth in place are infected so severely that damage is almost irreversible. Food particles and plaque may get trapped below the gum line in a pocket that can cause even further damage.
Typically, an oral surgeon will recommend that intense oral cleanings are done and potential scaling of the gums to remove diseased areas.
When the periodontitis becomes severe, it has reached the final stage of gum disease. In this stage, the bone and supporting fibers are essentially destroyed. When this stage is reached, the teeth are at risk of falling out or becoming very infected. Loose teeth can cause an uneven bite, and infections can cause decay.
Advanced periodontitis is difficult to treat, but with the help of an oral surgeon and a periodontist, treatment can remove the diseased areas. Once the diseased areas are removed, regeneration can take place through tissue grafting.
Gum disease is complex, but being aware of what each stage looks like can be helpful to someone who isn’t sure what stage their gum disease is in. If you have more questions about the three stages of gum disease, then reach out to our office so we can help you further. Give us a call or stop by our office today; we are here to assist in any way we can.
Request an appointment here: https://www.stgeorgedentalcare.com or call St. George Dental Care at (435) 628-9099 for an appointment in our St George office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Navigating healthcare costs can often feel confusing, especially when trying to decipher your benefit packet. Understanding your dental insurance St George Utah options is crucial to avoiding unexpected out-of-pocket expenses. By learning the details of your policy before your appointment, you can confidently plan your care and keep your smile healthy.At St. George Dental Care,…
Sudden dental pain or an unexpected mouth injury can disrupt your entire life in an instant. When you are dealing with throbbing discomfort or a broken tooth, the urgency you feel is completely valid. Finding immediate, reliable care is your top priority to get back to feeling like yourself.At St. George Dental Care, we understand…
Sudden dental pain is incredibly stressful, and worrying about the final bill only adds to that anxiety. Many patients delay seeking urgent help because they fear unexpected expenses and confusing invoices. Understanding the average emergency dentist cost St George UT can help you feel more in control of your situation and confident in your healthcare…
With so many options in St. George, Utah, choosing a new dentist can feel overwhelming. But finding the right provider is crucial for your long-term health, comfort, and peace of mind. Becoming a new patient should be a smooth transition, not a source of stress.If you are wondering exactly how to choose a dentist St…
Navigating healthcare costs can often feel confusing, especially when trying to decipher your benefit packet. Understanding your dental insurance St George Utah options is crucial to avoiding unexpected out-of-pocket expenses. By learning the details of your policy before your appointment, you can confidently plan your care and keep your smile healthy.At St. George Dental Care,…
Sudden dental pain or an unexpected mouth injury can disrupt your entire life in an instant. When you are dealing with throbbing discomfort or a broken tooth, the urgency you feel is completely valid. Finding immediate, reliable care is your top priority to get back to feeling like yourself.At St. George Dental Care, we understand…