Gum disease is a serious oral health issue that causes pockets in the gums, destruction of the bone, and might even lead to the loss of one or more teeth. The best way to prevent gum disease in Bel Air is to understand its different stages and what to do to prevent them. Keep reading to learn more about the progression of periodontal disease:
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the initial stage of gum disease. When there is a lot of plaque and bacteria in the mouth, it might lead to inflammation and infection in the gums. Gingivitis usually causes the gums to bleed, swell, or to become tender. If you notice that your gums look different or start to bleed when you brush your teeth, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist. With a deeper cleaning and a periodontal treatment, gingivitis is completely reversible. You should also make an effort to improve your home hygiene routine and limit your sugar intake.
Periodontitis
If you do not get treatment for your gingivitis, it might turn into periodontitis, which is a more serious stage of gum disease. As the infection and inflammation in the gums progresses, it will start to destroy the bone and fibers in the jaw. This could cause large pockets between the teeth and the gums where even more plaque and bacteria can develop and make the problem even worse. Visiting the dentist for periodontal treatment can help you prevent the disease from getting any worse . It is also important to brush the teeth twice a day and floss once a day to keep the gums as healthy as possible.
Advanced Periodontitis
This stage of gum disease is the most serious. Without the fibers and bones to support the teeth, advanced periodontitis might cause the teeth to loosen or shift in the mouth. Once the teeth move out of their original position, it might become difficult to bite and to chew. Without help from your dentist, advanced periodontitis could cause you to lose one or more of your teeth.