Gum disease is a problem that has different stages. Each stage has its own signs and effects. These include bleeding gums, bad breath, discomfort, and swallowed gums. So, understanding of these signs is the best thing because it’ll help you to take action before your condition gets worse.
This article is part of a series by the expert periodontists at EO Perio. The only purpose is to give you clear and simple information to help you take better care of your gums. We will cover the causes, symptoms, and ways to prevent and manage each stage. You’ll also learn what to expect at each phase and how to protect your gums before it’s too late.
Gum Disease: A Condition with Different Stages
There are two main types of gum diseases that develop in stages.
1. Gingivitis
2. Periodontitis
The first, “Gingivitis,” is the most common and mildest form of gum disease. It can be treated and reversed with proper care and little effort. But if left untreated, it can lead to Periodontitis, which is a serious and permanent condition.
Periodontists further have four stages
- Stage 1: Initial
- Stage 2: Moderate
- Stage 3: Severe, with a risk of tooth loss
- Stage 4: Advanced, with a high chance of losing all teeth
Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease)
The word “Gingivitis” has two parts “Gingiva” which means gums and “itis” which is a Latin-derived term meaning inflammation. So, the literal meaning of this term is Inflammation of Gums.
As we have discussed above, it is the first and modest stage. During this, your gums become red and inflamed and often caused by plaque that buildup at the gumline. But let’s understand: what is plaque? It is a sticky film or layer of bacteria that forms on your teeth. And it is caused if you don’t brush and floss regularly. The best part is that it is usually reversible with good oral care.
Here are some some common signs of gingivitis that include:
- Red and swollen gums
- Bleeding gums, especially while brushing or flossing
- Bad breath that lasts too long and doesn’t go away
If you notice any of the above-mentioned signs, it’s a clear indication that you need to visit a dentist. Its treatment typically involves professional cleaning and better oral hygiene practices such as brushing twice a day and using mouthwash.
So, if you treat this condition early, it’s very possible to prevent it from progressing to a more serious stage.
Stage 1: Mild Periodontitis
It is a severe condition of gingivitis. At this stage, bacteria have rooted into the gum tissue. And the first thing that will get affected is the bone that supports your teeth. Due to this reason, gums will begin to pull away from your teeth and will create a pocket-like shape where bacteria gather.
And this stage has its own signs such as:
- Gums will start bleeding easily
- Bad breath will get more worse due to infection
- Your teeth may also look longer and damaged
- And slight tooth mobility that will cause pain
Due to the mild attack, you may not lose your teeth, but if you ignore the condition it could be very dangerous.
When it comes to treatment, it includes deep cleansing which is known as scaling and root planing.
Stage 2: Moderate Periodontitis
This is the next stage of Periodontitis where the attack is average. But it is more severe than the mild periodontitis and the damage to bone and gums is more noticeable. And the pocket formed during this is deepened and continues to recede. A patient will experience severe symptoms that can cause the loss of both teeth & bones.
This stage has its own signs that could be probably:
- Pus between the teeth and gums
- Increased teeth mobility and severe pain that can cause shifting
- More discomfort while chewing and brushing
We recommend proper professional treatment during this stage. You may need more intensive cleaning and, in some cases, surgical treatments to repair the damaged tissues and bone.
However, with proper treatment, it is still possible to manage moderate periodontitis that can preserve your teeth.
Stage 3&4: Advanced Periodontitis (Severe Gum Disease)
Advanced periodontitis is the most severe stage of gum disease. At this point, the damage to the teeth and gums is significant. The bone that supports the teeth may be severely destroyed, and the teeth can become loose or even fall out.
The infection spreads throughout the gums, and the pockets between the gums and teeth are deep, making it difficult to clean and maintain oral hygiene.
Signs of advanced periodontitis include:
- Teeth that are loose or shifting
- Severe gum recession
- Deep pockets between the gums and teeth
- Persistent pain or discomfort
- Pus-filled abscesses in the gums
- Constant, foul-smelling breath
Advanced periodontitis requires urgent treatment from a dentist or periodontist. Treatment may include scaling and root planing, bone grafts, or flap surgery to clean the roots and reshape the gums. In extreme cases, tooth extraction may be necessary.
The goal at this stage is to control the infection and restore function, but preventing tooth loss can be a challenge.
Conclusion
Gum disease is a serious condition that can affect your overall health if not treated. It starts with gingivitis and can progress to more severe stages if left untreated. By understanding the stages of gum disease and following a good oral care routine, you can help prevent and manage the condition before it becomes a problem.
If you notice any signs of gum disease, such as bleeding gums, bad breath, or gum recession, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible. With the right treatment from a trusted clinic such as Tampa Dentist Wellness and proper care, you can keep your gums healthy and avoid the serious consequences of advanced periodontitis.
