What Are the Four Stages of Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease, often called gum disease, is sneaky. It starts quietly but can lead to significant dental problems if not caught early. But don’t worry, at Riverstone Dental Care in Canton, GA, we’re here to help you understand the stages and, most importantly, prevent it from progressing. Let’s dive into the four stages of periodontal disease and what you should watch for.

Stage 1: Gingivitis – The Wake-Up Call

Gingivitis is the first sign that something’s off with your gums. You might notice:

• Red, swollen gums
• Bleeding when you brush or floss (a sure sign something’s up!)
• Bad breath that just won’t quit

Here’s the good news: at this stage, gum disease is completely reversible! Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings will set things right again.

Stage 2: Early Periodontitis – The Next Step

If gingivitis sticks around unchecked, it can turn into early periodontitis. Now, the infection has started affecting the bone supporting your teeth. Symptoms at this stage might include:

• Gums pulling away from your teeth, creating pockets
• Slight bone loss
• More inflammation

Don’t panic—there’s still time to address this with a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing, also called non-surgical periodontal therapy). The goal here is to remove bacteria, reduce inflammation, and stop the progression.

Stage 3: Moderate Periodontitis – The Alarm Bells

At this point, periodontal disease is in full swing, causing more serious damage. You may experience:

• Deeper pockets around your teeth
• Moderate bone loss
• Teeth starting to feel loose

Treatment becomes more aggressive, possibly including laser therapy or other advanced options to prevent further destruction. It’s crucial to get things under control here before the situation worsens.

Stage 4: Advanced Periodontitis – The Final Stage

This is where things can get critical. Advanced periodontitis results in:

• Deep pockets that may contain pus (yep, that’s as unpleasant as it sounds)
• Significant bone and gum tissue loss
• Loose or even missing teeth

At this stage, surgical interventions may be necessary to repair the damage, and tooth loss becomes a very real possibility. But with the right care, even advanced cases can be managed.

Gum Disease Treatment at Riverstone Dental Care in Canton, GA

The key to avoiding advanced periodontal disease? Don’t wait! Regular checkups at Riverstone Dental Care in Canton, GA help keep your gums and teeth in tip-top shape. Whether you’re just noticing a little bleeding or you’re worried about more advanced symptoms, Dr. Ruximar Linkous, Dr. Curtis Guest, and Dr. Alex Mehraban are here to help you take control of your oral health. Contact us today to schedule your appointment!

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Categorised in: Gum Health