Early Signs of Periodontal Disease

April 25, 2022 Uncategorized

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is inflammation of the gums and bone that supports the surrounding teeth due to an infection. This inflammation is the body’s response to fighting off the infection that has taken over the gums and sockets, leading its way into your jaw bone. According to the CDC, periodontal disease is extremely common in adults, with 47% of people over the age of 30 and 70% of people over the age of 65 suffering from the disease. With this understanding, it is important to know what to look for before periodontal disease becomes severe. There is a chance of reversal if caught in its earliest stage, commonly referred to as gingivitis.

The Stages of Periodontal Disease

Receding Gums

This is the precursor to periodontal disease and the least painful. Because of this, symptoms are often ignored, like bleeding gums after brushing or flossing.

2. Early Periodontitis

This stage becomes apparent when gingivitis is not dealt with. Without the proper care, your gums will begin to look inflamed red and start pulling away from the tooth.

3. Moderate Periodontitis

If still not cared for properly, more damage will begin to be done to the gums. Inflammation will become more severe, and gum recession will be more noticeable.

The teeth will begin to loosen from the sockets.

4. Advanced Periodontitis

Once you hit this stage of periodontitis, your dentist will start talking to you about dental surgery like tooth removal and dental implants to save any remaining teeth that have not been completely affected.

You will begin to feel pain during this stage.

5. Severe Periodontitis

Severe periodontitis is the final stage where the chances of complete tooth loss are eminent. Even if there are some remaining teeth, the bone that remains will be unable to support the teeth and will need to be removed. Dental restorations like All On 4 dental implants will be the next steps in restoring your dental health.

It is important to see your dentist regularly to catch any early stages of gingivitis or periodontitis that may be appearing. Your dentist will tell you what stage you are currently in and the best treatment options moving forward.

The Signs of Periodontal Disease

Once the stages are known and understood, it is important to recognize the early signs before they worsen. The sooner gingivitis is caught, the easier it will be to eliminate your chances of periodontal disease. The following is a list of early warning signs you should not miss, and if you feel they pertain to you, consult your dentist as soon as possible:

Gums are noticeably red and swollen.
Chronic bad breath regardless of brushing and mouthwash.
Gross taste in your mouth that persists for a long period of time.
Gums are bleeding after and during oral care, like brushing and flossing.
Chewing foods is painful, and teeth are overly sensitive
Teeth appear loose, and the gums are beginning to pull away from the root of the tooth.
There is a noticeable difference in the way your teeth come together when you bite down.
If you wear a partial denture, there may be a noticeable difference in the fit.

If any of these symptoms are showing up or persisting, make sure to consult your dentist or any other dental professional. Periodontal disease can affect your oral and overall health in many ways, and because of this, it is important to make sure you are addressing the symptoms.

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