Stages of Gum Disease Explained From a Lexington Dentist

One of the primary reasons for tooth loss is gum disease. Gum disease includes two distinct stages. When recognized and treated in the early stages, the dental problem can be reversed, and tooth loss is avoided. Luckily, gum disease can be prevented with the practice of good oral hygiene. In this article, Dr. Jinyoung Kim, the best dentist in Lexington, KY, briefly discusses the different stages of gum disease.

Early Stages of Gum Disease

This stage just affects the soft tissue of the gums. Therefore, the patient may not feel any pain. Even if the symptoms are moderate, it is critical to detect gum disease at this early stage before it advances to periodontitis.

Gingivitis Symptoms May Include:

• Gums that are swollen or bleeding
• A metallic taste in the mouth
• Bad breath
• Receding gums
• Increasing the distance between teeth

Periodontitis – Gum Disease in its Advanced Stages

Periodontitis is a more advanced form of periodontal disease that, if allowed to proceed, affects not only the gums but also the bone structures that support the teeth. Dr. Josh Eastham, a dentist in Grand Junction, CO, says that the symptoms may not be noted until moderate periodontitis is established if regular dental appointments are not made.

Gums That Are Healthy

If you regularly pay attention to your gums and teeth, you’ll know when something is abnormal. Additionally, Healthy gums are pink and firm. Also, they support the tooth well.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is caused by a bacterial buildup. In the early stages, there is visible inflammation around the gums, with gum tissues appearing red and swollen. Gingivitis is indicated by gums that are readily inflamed or bleed during tooth brushing. Plaque removal is required to avoid the development of gum disease. This treatment can be done at a local dental office during a hygiene cleaning.

Slight Periodontitis 

As the gums become inflamed in this stage of gum disease, they begin to pull away from the teeth, causing periodontal “pockets.” Food, bacteria, and plaque start to accumulate in the pockets, resulting in infection. Both bacterial toxins and the immune system’s response to infection destroy the surrounding bone.

Moderate Periodontitis 

Periodontitis symptoms worsen as the disease spreads, and some discomfort may develop. More bone is lost, teeth become looser, and the gums recede further. Additionally, this is one of the last opportunities to treat periodontitis. So, contact an emergency dentist in Lexington, KY for treatment.

Advanced Periodontitis

Advanced periodontitis, a leading cause of tooth loss in adults, is characterized by painful abscesses caused by the infection extending beneath the gums. This stage of gum disease is irreversible. Patients who lose their teeth will need to undergo restorative dentistry to prevent additional oral health problems. 

For help with your oral health, please contact Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington, KY.