What Are the Different Stages of Gum Disease?

Did you know that about half of adults in America are affected by gum disease or periodontal disease?  Since this condition can potentially lead to tooth loss and a wide range of health issues, any dentist in Lake Worth FL will want you to know how extremely important it is to treat it seriously.

Different Stages of Gum Disease

Gingivitis

Also known as the early stage of gum disease, gingivitis affects your gum’s soft tissue and exhibits mild symptoms that may include the following:

• Bad breath
• Metallic taste in the mouth
• Red and swollen gums
• Bleeding gums
• Receding gums
• Increasing spaces between your teeth

Periodontitis

When gingivitis is left untreated, it progresses to a more advanced periodontal disease called periodontitis. At this stage, the disease has already affected the bone structures beneath the gums that support your teeth.

Early Periodontitis

Inflamed gums tend to pull away from the teeth and form spaces that are called periodontal pockets. Infection can take place in these pockets when food particles, plaque, and bacteria start to collect in them. Over time, the bone that surrounds the affected area becomes damaged by the immune system’s natural response to infection and bacterial toxins.

Moderate Periodontitis

As the inflammation spreads, the symptoms of early periodontitis worsen and spread until a sense of discomfort may be experienced. As the jawbone around the affected area loses its density, the gums recede further, and the teeth loosen.

Advanced Periodontitis

At this point, the infection that has spread beneath the gums lads to the formation of painful abscesses. It’s only a matter of time before you lose your teeth.

Looking for a Dentist in Lake Worth FL?

At Miguel Ferrer DDS PA, we put your oral health first by providing you with the best care possible. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.