What are the Stages of Periodontal Disease?

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Periodontal disease is a progressive disease of the teeth and gums that can lead to infected and receding gums, destruction of the periodontal tissues (the periodontal ligament that holds the tooth in its socket, and the bone to which it is attached), loss of teeth, and even a compromised immune system. Cosmetic dentists can repair the visible damage of periodontal disease, and family dentists can help prevent and treat it, but the first and best line of defense is proper dental hygiene by the patients themselves.

The stages of periodontal disease are Gingivitis, Early Periodontitis, and Advanced Periodontitis.

Gingivitis:

Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease, and the stage with which the average person is most familiar. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums caused by a buildup of plaque at the gum line and base of the teeth that can harbor harmful bacteria. These bacteria produce waste and toxins which irritate and inflame the gums, a symptom of which is bleeding during brushing. This is the easiest stage of periodontal disease to treat and reverse, as no damage to the periodontal tissues has yet occurred.

Early Periodontitis:

When gingivitis goes untreated it can cause buildup of tartar on the teeth at the gum line. This buildup often has an irregular surface of pits, sharp edges, and grooves. It is an ideal surface for even more plaque formation, and can cause pockets to form in the gums at the base of the teeth that can ultimately extend down to the periodontal tissues. Food, bacteria, and additional plaque can become trapped deep in these pockets which then begin to damage bone and ligament tissue. This damage is irreversible, but it can be stopped with proper treatment.

Advanced Periodontitis:

As the periodontal disease progresses, the gum line may recede making the teeth appear longer, the pockets at the base of the teeth may grow larger and deeper, and bone and ligament damage progresses to the point that the teeth loosen and shift in the gums. This can cause an incorrect bite, further infection, and ultimately loss of teeth. Other symptoms may include bad breath and tastes, pain, pus discharge, and discomfort while eating.

Genetics and lifestyle factors can contribute to the severity of periodontal disease. Hormonal changes, illness and some medications may make the gums more sensitive or affect the protective flow of saliva. Clenching the jaw or grinding the teeth can put additional stress on the bones and ligaments of the periodontal tissues. Poor diet and stress may contribute to faulty immune system responses, and diabetes and smoking in particular are key contributors to periodontal disease.

Successful treatment of periodontal disease begins with you. Since plaque buildup is the primary cause of the disease, a proper regimen of brushing and flossing should help prevent the onset of gingivitis. Proper diet, sleep and stress relief, refraining from smoking, and proper treatment and handling of immune system issues in the individual are determining factors in preventive care. Services provided at regular checkups by family dentists such as plaque and tarter removal complete the prevention program. Good dental health is about much more than a great smile!

If you are seeking professional dental advice regarding periodontal disease, it's time to call Shumway Dental Care. Their Chandler dentists will ask you questions, examine you, and determine exactly what needs to be done to get you back to normal. Call today for an appointment. Visit http://shumwaydental.com/.