Periodontitis, also known as gum disease, is an oral health issue that affects millions of people. Left untreated, periodontitis can severely affect a person's oral health.
This blog post will discuss the stages of periodontitis, from gingivitis to advanced gum disease. We will also cover the signs and symptoms of each step and the treatments available to restore oral health.
Early Periodontitis Stages
When brushing or flossing, patients may suffer redness, inflammation, and bleeding during this phase. Good oral hygiene and routine dental cleanings allow early-stage periodontitis to be treated and its effects reversed.
During a periodontal examination, your periodontist will gauge the depth of these pockets to ascertain the degree of harm. To get rid of plaque and tartar buildup below the gum line, they could also suggest a deep cleaning technique called scaling and root planing.
Moderate Periodontitis Stages
The gums may start to recede at this point, resulting in pockets between the teeth and gums. Bacteria thrive in these pockets, which can lead to infections, harm the bone and connective tissue supporting the teeth, and create infections.
The deeper the pockets get as the condition worsens, the easier the germs get into the gum tissue. When you brush or floss, the gums may bleed, and the teeth may feel loose or slip out of place.
Moderate periodontitis requires more aggressive treatment than gingivitis. Your periodontist may recommend a deep cleaning called scaling and root planing.
This involves removing plaque and tartar from beneath the gum line and smoothing out rough spots on the tooth root to help the gums reattach to the tooth. They may also prescribe antibiotics to help clear up any infections.
Advanced Periodontitis Stages
The tooth's supporting structures are significantly damaged, and tooth loss is possible. Periodontitis can result in various problems in its extreme stages, including severe discomfort and pain.
At this point, pockets of bacteria in the gum tissue have the potential to develop, hastening the loss of bone and gum tissue. Patients could notice that their teeth feel loose or are losing teeth, making it difficult for them to eat or speak.
The spread of bacteria throughout the bloodstream is one of the most significant problems connected to advanced periodontitis. It can raise the risk of developing severe health issues like cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
Surgery is frequently used to treat severe periodontitis to eradicate the bacteria and restore any damage already done. Even with treatment, it's crucial to remember that specific damage may already have been done and cannot be rectified. Periodontitis must be treated as soon as the first symptoms appear to stop it from progressing to more severe stages.
Risk Factors for Periodontitis
Gum disease, sometimes called periodontitis, is a widespread dental illness affecting millions worldwide. Although it may be avoided, some risk factors increase your likelihood of getting this ailment. The following are some of the risk factors for periodontitis:
Poor nutrition: It can be more difficult for your body to fight diseases like gum disease if you eat a diet low in vital nutrients, especially vitamin C.
Hormonal changes: Changes in hormones can increase your gums' susceptibility to infection and inflammation. It is especially valid throughout puberty, menopause, and pregnancy.
Genetics: Some individuals are genetically susceptible to acquiring gum disease. If gum disease runs in your family, you may be more prone to the problem.
Medical conditions: Some illnesses, like diabetes, can make you more likely to get gum disease. Medications that produce dry mouth can also increase your chance of developing periodontitis.
Age: As you age, you run a higher risk of acquiring gum disease. According to estimates, over 70% of adults over 65 suffer from gum disease.
Final Thoughts
We recognize the value of early periodontitis diagnosis and treatment at Periodontal Specialists. Our specialists use the latest technologies and techniques to treat gum disease at all stages.
Periodontitis can be reversed in its early stages, but as it advances, it becomes more challenging to treat and can result in more serious health issues. Don't wait until it's too late - contact Periodontal Specialists today to schedule your consultation.
