What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a type of infection caused by bacteria that accumulates on the teeth and gums. Left untreated, the infection can cause damage to the gums, teeth, and jawbone. Gum disease can range from mild to severe, and can be a result of poor oral hygiene habits or other factors, such as genetics, diabetes, and smoking.
What Are the Stages of Gum Disease?
Gum disease is usually divided into four stages: gingivitis, mild periodontitis, moderate periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis.
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and is characterized by redness and swelling of the gums, as well as bleeding when brushing and flossing. At this stage, the infection is still reversible with proper oral hygiene.
Mild Periodontitis is the second stage of gum disease. At this stage, the infection has spread beyond the gums and is causing damage to the bone that supports the teeth. If left untreated, mild periodontitis can progress to more severe stages.
Moderate Periodontitis is the third stage of gum disease. At this stage, the infection has spread to the jawbone, causing pockets to form between the teeth and gums. These pockets can become infected and cause further damage to the bone and teeth.
Advanced Periodontitis is the most severe stage of gum disease. At this stage, the infection has spread to the jawbone and has caused significant damage to the bone and teeth. Advanced periodontitis can result in tooth loss and is difficult to treat.
How Do I Know What Stage My Gum Disease Is In?
Your dentist can diagnose the stage of your gum disease based on the results of a comprehensive dental exam. During the exam, your dentist will look for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums. Your dentist may also measure the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums, as well as take X-rays to check for bone damage.