Periodontal disease is a relatively common disorder that affects your gum tissues. It occurs suddenly and without warning, and it can be quite harmful in the long run. The illness comes in stages, the first of which is relatively painless. It could lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Our dentists at Glacier Peak Dentistry have provided all of the disease-related information you need on this blog.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, which is characterized by swollen gum tissues along the gum line, can damage the jawbone, leading to tooth loss or the need for tooth extraction. Periodontal disease arises when teeth are not thoroughly cleansed. Disease-causing microbes thrive in environments with leftover food and much plaque. Gingivitis, the first stage of periodontal disease, is characterized by inflamed, red, and bleeding gums.
What Are The Stages Of Periodontal Disease?
Gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis are the three stages of this illness. According to your Thornton dentist, periodontal disease is split into four phases, ranging from mild to severe.
Gingivitis
This stage of the disease is marked by fat or inflammatory gum tissues, red gums, bleeding gums during brushing and flossing, and halitosis. Gingivitis is the enlargement of the gingiva caused by plaque accumulation near the gum line. Toxins are produced when plaque is not removed by brushing and flossing regularly, causing gingivitis and damage to the gingival tissues. Gingivitis is treatable if it does not progress to the point of the jawbone and connective tissue loss. Your dentist can reverse this stage if he addresses the injury immediately. At this point, you can schedule professional teeth cleanings and examinations with your dentist in Thornton.
Periodontitis
When the periodontal disease advances from mild to moderate, it reaches the stage of periodontitis. Periodontitis can cause pain or damage to the gum tissues, jawbones, and nerves. Increased gum inflammation and redness are signs of periodontitis. Gums can also bleed if they are brushed or flossed or if there is a little bump on them. Furthermore, pockets form beneath the gum line, allowing more trapped food and plaque to accumulate. Periodontitis treatment comprises scaling and root planing, or thorough teeth cleaning to remove plaque collection and prevent infection spread.
Advanced Periodontitis
At this point, periodontal disease has proceeded to the ultimate stage. The bacteria infect the gums, destroying connective tissues, jawbone, and gingival tissue. You’re more prone to experience tooth loss and shifting teeth at this period. Other dental issues include loose teeth, acute toothaches, and recurrent halitosis. Patients with weak or susceptible teeth also have much pain when they chew. Only surgical methods or laser therapy will be able to treat your periodontal disease after it has progressed to this point. Your Thornton dentist will remove any damaged teeth that cannot be saved by treatment. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings with your dentist in Thornton are recommended. It can be treated more effectively if caught early before it advances to a severe dental condition.
We hope this blog has helped you learn more about periodontal disease stages. Book an appointment with us at Glacier Peak Dentistry if you are looking for the best periodontal treatments in Thornton, CO.