Periodontal disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. This condition doesn’t just affect your gums—it can have serious consequences for your overall oral health. We like to emphasize the importance of understanding periodontal disease, recognizing its symptoms, and getting timely treatment to maintain a healthy, confident smile.

This disease begins when the bacteria in plaque, a sticky film that forms on teeth, cause the gums to become inflamed. Over time, the infection destroys the tissues and bone that hold your teeth in place, making it critical to detect and treat periodontal disease in its early stages.

Stages of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease progresses in stages, from mild inflammation to severe bone damage. Understanding these stages can help you seek timely treatment.

  1. Gingivitis
    This is the earliest stage of gum disease, characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Gingivitis is often painless, making it easy to overlook. Fortunately, at this stage, the disease is reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene.
  2. Mild Periodontitis
    If gingivitis is left untreated, it can advance to mild periodontitis. At this point, the infection starts to damage the bone and fibers that hold the teeth in place. You may begin to notice receding gums, deeper pockets between the teeth and gums, and mild discomfort.
  3. Moderate Periodontitis
    As the disease progresses, the damage to the supporting structures of the teeth becomes more significant. The pockets between the teeth and gums deepen, and more bone loss occurs. Teeth may begin to loosen, and you may experience persistent bad breath (halitosis).
  4. Severe Periodontitis
    In the most advanced stage of periodontal disease, the bone and tissue supporting the teeth are severely damaged. Teeth may become loose or fall out, and you may experience painful abscesses. At this point, advanced periodontal treatments or even tooth extractions may be necessary.

 

How Periodontal Disease Affects Your Oral Health

When periodontal disease progresses, it not only affects your gums but also compromises the integrity of your entire mouth. Here are some of the long-term effects of untreated gum disease:

  1. Bone loss: As the disease destroys the jawbone, it weakens the foundation for your teeth, causing them to become loose and eventually fall out.
  2. Tooth loss: Periodontitis is one of the leading causes of adult tooth loss. The deterioration of supporting bone and gum tissue can result in teeth falling out or needing extraction.
  3. Increased risk of infections: Advanced periodontal disease can create pockets of infection that may lead to abscesses, which are painful and can spread bacteria to other parts of the body.
  4. Impact on general health: Studies have shown links between periodontal disease and other systemic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory illnesses.

Treatment Options for Periodontal Disease

At Smile 360 Dental Clinic, we offer a range of effective treatments for periodontal disease, tailored to the severity of the condition.

  1. Professional Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)
    In the early stages of gum disease (gingivitis), professional cleaning can remove plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and below the gum line. Scaling removes tartar from the tooth surface, while root planing smooths out rough spots on the roots of teeth where bacteria gather. This deep cleaning can help the gums heal and reattach to the teeth.
  2. Antibiotic Therapy
    In some cases, we may prescribe antibiotics to control bacterial infection in conjunction with scaling and root planing. Antibiotics can be taken orally or applied directly to the infected gum pockets.
  3. Laser Therapy
    Smile 360 offers laser treatment as a minimally invasive option for treating gum disease. Laser therapy can target and remove infected tissue while preserving healthy tissue, promoting faster healing with minimal discomfort.
  4. Gum Surgery
    For more advanced cases of periodontal disease, surgery may be necessary to restore the health of the gums and supporting bone. Surgical options include flap surgery, where the gums are lifted back to remove tartar, and bone grafts to regenerate lost bone.
  5. Maintenance
    After initial treatment, maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial to preventing the recurrence of periodontal disease. Regular dental visits for cleanings and checkups will help keep your gums and teeth healthy.

Preventing Periodontal Disease

Preventing periodontal disease is largely within your control. Here are some preventive measures you can take:

  • Brush and floss daily: Proper brushing and flossing are key to removing plaque from your teeth and preventing tartar buildup.
  • Regular dental checkups: Visit Smile 360 at least twice a year for professional cleanings and early detection of gum disease.
  • Avoid smoking: Smoking is a significant risk factor for periodontal disease. Quitting smoking can greatly improve your gum health.
  • Eat a balanced diet: A nutritious diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports overall oral health, particularly your gums.
  • Manage health conditions: If you have diabetes or other health conditions, work with your healthcare provider to keep them under control, as they can affect your gum health.

Schedule Your Consultation Today!

If you’re experiencing any symptoms of periodontal disease or would like to learn more about how to prevent it, contact Smile 360 Dental Clinic today to schedule a consultation. Early intervention is key to preserving your smile and overall oral health.

 

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