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.
Dealing with wisdom teeth extraction can be daunting. The discomfort, the dietary restrictions, and the healing process can be a lot to handle. One of the most common concerns post-extraction is dry socket. It's important to differentiate between normal healing and dry socket to ensure proper care. Wisdom teeth extraction is a common dental procedure.…
Have you noticed your teeth looking a little dull? Or maybe your gums feel more sensitive than usual? If you haven't been to the dentist in a while, you might be experiencing the effects of tartar buildup. Enter debridement—a comprehensive cleaning method designed to tackle stubborn plaque and tartar. In this blog post, we'll explore…
If you've ever winced while sipping hot coffee or cringed while eating ice cream, you know the struggle of sensitive teeth. It's a common dental issue that can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. The good news is that there are practical solutions to help manage this condition.In this blog post, we'll explore everything…
Cosmetic dentistry is more popular than ever, with many people seeking ways to enhance their smiles and boost their confidence. Veneers have become a top choice among the various treatments available for those looking to achieve a flawless smile. However, one critical question often arises—are veneers covered by insurance? This blog post aims to demystify…
Dealing with wisdom teeth extraction can be daunting. The discomfort, the dietary restrictions, and the healing process can be a lot to handle. One of the most common concerns post-extraction is dry socket. It's important to differentiate between normal healing and dry socket to ensure proper care. Wisdom teeth extraction is a common dental procedure.…
Have you noticed your teeth looking a little dull? Or maybe your gums feel more sensitive than usual? If you haven't been to the dentist in a while, you might be experiencing the effects of tartar buildup. Enter debridement—a comprehensive cleaning method designed to tackle stubborn plaque and tartar. In this blog post, we'll explore…