More than half of all American adults suffer from periodontal (gum) disease, but not all types of gum disease are the same. In this blog from Honest Teeth, we’ll discuss the 3 stages that are most commonly used to describe gum disease and the symptoms of each one. Read on, and make sure you stay informed about your oral health. 

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. Gingivitis occurs when plaque and tartar begin to collect between your gums and your teeth. Over time, the bacteria in plaque and tartar will begin to attack and infect your gums.

This results in symptoms such as gum tenderness and sensitivity, as well as gum discoloration and bleeding when brushing or flossing. The bacteria buildup may also cause bad breath (halitosis) that won’t go away, even with consistent brushing or the use of mouthwash.

Gingivitis is also completely reversible, unlike the following stages of gum disease. If you get periodontal care from Honest Teeth right away, Dr. Meinerz and Dr. Krueger can clean your teeth and gums and prevent any permanent damage to your mouth. 

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is the intermediate stage of gum disease. In this stage of periodontal disease, the infection has advanced, and is no longer reversible. The bacteria in your gums will attack your gum tissue and the support structure of your teeth, causing permanent damage to your mouth.

Common symptoms of periodontitis include soft and “spongy” gums, gum recession (making your teeth look longer), gums that feel very tender when touched, and sensitivity when chewing. If you notice these symptoms, you need to get treatment immediately. 

While periodontitis cannot be completely reversed like gingivitis, its progression can be halted to protect your remaining healthy teeth, and keep your mouth healthy. However, you will require routine periodontal cleanings for the rest of your life to keep the infection under control.

Advanced Periodontitis

Advanced periodontitis is the final stage of gum disease. In this stage of periodontal disease, the infection has done extreme damage to your gums and your teeth. 

This results in symptoms like a shift in how your teeth fit together, loose teeth, the buildup of pus between your gums and teeth, a foul taste in your mouth, severe pain when chewing, and even total tooth loss. 

While it may sometimes be possible to save your teeth with advanced periodontal care and oral surgery, most patients need to have most or all of their teeth removed and replaced with dentures. If you have advanced periodontitis, it’s very likely that you will lose at least some of your teeth. 

Get The Help You Need To Treat Periodontal Disease – Contact Us Today! 

Each stage of gum disease is different, but they all have one thing in common. The sooner you get treatment, the more likely it is that you can save your teeth and reverse or halt the progression of the disease. So if you think you might have periodontal disease in Elm Grove, don’t wait. Contact Honest Teeth online or give us a call at (262) 784-7770 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Max Meinerz or Dr. Kyle Krueger, and get the help you need to restore your oral health.