A Look at the Stages of Periodontal Disease

Last updated 9 months ago

Your oral health contributes to the quality of your overall health. Minor symptoms, such as gum inflammation, could be an indication of a potentially dangerous oral ailment, such as periodontal disease. If you suspect that you’re experiencing one of the following stages of periodontal disease, seek treatment from the family dentists at Northern Virginia Dental Associates immediately.

Gingivitis
The first stage of periodontal disease is gingivitis, which causes gum inflammation due to the buildup of plaque underneath and between your teeth. It’s important to consult your dentist as soon as you recognize the signs of gingivitis, which include swollen and red gums that may bleed during brushing or flossing. Your teeth and gum tissue have not yet been permanently damaged at this stage of periodontal disease, and your dentist can provide the necessary treatment and advice to reverse the condition.

Periodontitis
If gingivitis is left untreated, the plaque may spread to the bones and connective tissue of your mouth, leading to periodontitis. During this second stage of periodontal disease, more severe, and possibly irreversible, damage occurs. Your gums remain inflamed, and you may feel your teeth loosening due to the breakdown of the connective tissues in your gums. If your gums form a small opening below your gum line, your teeth, gums, and jaw will become susceptible to infection from bacteria.

Advanced Periodontitis
If both gingivitis and the early stages of periodontitis are ignored, the disease progresses to advanced periodontitis. This is the last stage of gum disease, and this is when the most damage to your oral health is inflicted. The last bones and tissues supporting your teeth are destroyed by plaque and infection, causing your teeth to loosen and fall out. Basic tasks, such as eating and chewing, may become increasingly difficult due to missing or damaged teeth. Consult your dentist immediately for aggressive treatment if you are suffering from advanced periodontitis.

Despite the damage inflicted by periodontal disease, it’s never too late to begin treatment. Schedule a dental examination with the family dentists at Northern Virginia Dental Associates by calling (888) 862-0095. We also specialize in cosmetic dentistry services for your smile restoration.