Many adults experience the slow progression of Periodontal Disease, which is often the underlying cause of tooth loss, and a major reason people come to see me for dental implants. Simply put, Periodontal Disease is advanced gum disease! It’s classified into three stages, based on the signs and symptoms inside a patient’s mouth.
Phase 1:
The first phase is often referred to as “gingivitis.” This is when the gums (aka “gingiva”) have become inflamed and are red and a little puffy. The gums tend to bleed easily when brushed or sometimes even when touched with a finger. That’s not normal. Usually this can be reversed through more careful oral hygiene, such as increased brushing and flossing times.
Phase 2:
During this stage, bacteria found in plaque irritate the gums so badly that they start to recede. The gums are stripped away, and pockets form between them and the root surfaces. This starts a vicious cycle, because the pockets make it harder for the plaque to be removed. So even with flossing, there will be a lot of plaque left near the root causing even more irritation. The pockets are also a good environment for other microbes to collect, causing damage to the fibers that connect the tooth to the bone. Once it reaches this stage, it’s difficult to treat.
Phase 3:
This stage involves advanced breakdown of the bone structure around the teeth, causing them to loosen. When this happens, teeth become loose and at great risk of breaking or falling out, just from the force of chewing. Once a patient experiences pain or discomfort while chewing, or abscesses form, the teeth need to be extracted. I’d like to add that I see patients at all stages of Periodontal Disease. I don’t pass judgment because someone has Periodontal Disease. My goal is to assess their current condition so I can help them to get a transformed smile and go on with their lives.
If you’re suffering from Periodontal Disease, I encourage you to contact us immediately to get it taken care of.
