|
Page 1 of 3  Periodontal (Gum) Disease
Periodontal diseases range from simple gum inflammation to serious disease that can lead to soft tissue damage and bone loss. In the worst cases, teeth are lost. Click the image to the left to see an illustration of the progress of periodontal disease.
There are 3 stages of gum disease:
Stage 1: Gingivitis
This is the first stage of gum disease. Gums feel tender, mildly sore, may bleed when flossing & brushing. Untreated gingivitis can advance to periodontitis and will lead to tooth loss and other health problems.
Stage 2: Peridontitis
At this stage, the plaque has spread to the tooth roots, causing inflammation to the bone & fibers. Gums pull away from the teeth. Gums are inflammed and bleed.
Stage 3: Advanced periodontitis (Final stage)
Supporting bone & the fibers holding teeth are destroyed. Teeth become loose. Increased mobility of the teeth causes the bite to change. Infection sets in, and teeth eventually have to be removed.
We recommend patients seek treatment with a periodontist for advanced periodontitis.
|
