Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is one of the most common dental ailments. In fact, a study by the CDC confirmed that over 50% of adults over 30 have advanced gum disease.
So how do you know if you have gum disease, and if so, at which stage? Below, we’ll discuss each of the five stages of gum disease along with ways you can both prevent and treat this far too common ailment.
Stage 1: Bleeding
If you notice that your gums bleed every time you brush your teeth, even when you brush gently, or when you eat (apples are a common food you might see this with), you probably have the earliest stages of gum disease.
Stage 2: Gingivitis
Gingivitis is early-stage gum disease. The most common symptom is bleeding gums, especially every time you brush, swollen gums, and bad breath. When you have gingivitis, plaque starts to form under the gum line. If you visit your dentist at this stage, they will likely remove the plaque from under your gum line (a process called scaling). When caught early on, gingivitis can be reversed.
Stage 3: Early Periodontitis
During this stage, you will experience very swollen and sore gums. The plaque under your gum line will begin to harden and form into tartar.
Stage 4: Moderate Periodontitis
Patients with stage 4 gum disease will experience their gums starting to recede and be very sore. Teeth are also more likely to become damaged at this stage, as decay begins to weaken the teeth from the outside in. Many patients experience loose teeth at this point.
Stage 5: Advanced Periodontitis
When a patient has advanced periodontitis, they will experience severe pain and begin to lose their teeth unless they see a dentist right away. Decay and infection will likely spread to the jawbone at this point.
Treating & Preventing Gum Disease
If you suspect you may have gum disease, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Intervention is the only way to reduce or reverse your symptoms depending on how advanced your gum disease is. Whether you need a deep cleaning to remove soft plaque under the gum line or require a more advanced restorative treatment, Midtown Dental offers comprehensive treatments for patients experiencing all stages of gum disease.
Of course, it’s better to prevent gum disease and avoid treatment altogether. You must brush and floss your teeth twice a day to avoid gum disease. It’s also important to maintain a healthy diet and visit your dentist twice a year for professional examinations.
Gum Disease Treatment in Logan, Utah
If you think you may have gum disease, contact our office to schedule an appointment right away. We will recommend a treatment option that is not only best for your smile, but for your budget!
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