The Stages of Periodontal Disease

 

Tooth decay is one of the most prevalent dental issues in the world, with 7 in every 10 Canadians suffering from some form of gum disease.

 

Periodontal disease is most common in adults over thirty, and as individuals get older, they become even more susceptible to gum infection and inflammation. 

 

While factors such as physical trauma also contribute to tooth loss, periodontal disease, also known as gingivitis, is the leading cause. When this disease is diagnosed early on, there’s a higher chance of being able to slow or halt its effects to prevent tooth loss. 

 

Prevention starts at home by maintaining a proper oral hygiene routine, brushing and flossing twice a day, and visiting your dentist for routine checkups every six months. 

Periodontal Disease & It’s Warning Signs 

When bacteria are allowed to accumulate on your teeth, whether due to a poor oral hygiene routine or an unhealthy diet, they begin to form plaque and tartar on the surface. 

 

The tartar buildup spreads right along the gum line, making it incredibly hard to clean and therefore starting the periodontal disease process. 

 

Although periodontitis is a tough disease to treat, catching it early on by watching for warning signs presents you with a higher chance of preventing tooth loss. 

 

Some of the symptoms to look out for include: 

 

• Bleeding gums when brushing teeth
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Receding gums
• Red, sensitive, or swollen gum tissue
• Pain when chewing
• Buildup of plaque and tartar on teeth 

 

It can be difficult to notice the above symptoms in their early stages, though your dentist will be able to point them out during a checkup. 

Gum Inflammation and Gingivitis

Periodontal disease first affects the soft part of the gum tissue, as it’s exposed to the bacteria living on plaque and tartar. 

 

The inflammation of the gums will show up as bleeding gums when you brush or floss your teeth. Some patients may not even experience pain or soreness in this stage since the symptoms arestill mild. 

 

One of the most noticeable signs in this stage is the discoloration of teeth, which is caused by plaque build up.

 

This is the only stage of periodontitis that is reversible, as the bacteria have not yet attacked the bones and inner structure of your teeth. 

Early Periodontal Disease

In the early stage of periodontitis, infection will spread to the gums and begin its bone destruction process. While this stage is not reversible, it can still be managed with the tooth standing a chance at being saved. 

 

You will begin to see your gums recede and form pockets between the teeth and tissue. Once these pockets have been created, harmful bacteria will begin their attack on the teeth’s inner structure. 

Moderate Periodontal Disease

The third stage of periodontal disease is quite similar as the early stage, with the symptoms remaining the same but becoming more severe. 

 

As the gums recede further and larger gaps are created, deeper access for bacteria is given, allowing it to continue its attack on the bone and entering your bloodstream and immune system. 

Advanced Periodontal Disease

If periodontal disease has been allowed to reach its final stage, the connective tissue holding your teeth in place will seriously deteriorate, with anything supporting the teeth getting destroyed as well. 

 

Individuals will experience incredible pain while chewing, cold sensitivity, and halitosis. Since the damage is so severe, tooth loss is a great possibility. 

Full Mouth Restoration Services at Yazdani Family Dentistry

A few missing teeth shouldn’t dictate how you live your life. With so many mouth restoration options to choose from, you can go back to enjoying all the foods you like with a beautiful, new smile in no time. 

 

Our dental experts at Yazdani Family Dentistry strive to provide you with exceptional results every time, helping you gain back your confidence in your smile.

 

Reach out to us to learn more about gum disease treatment and book your appointment.