Gum disease is a condition that can cause the degeneration of your jawbone and loss of your permanent teeth. As a patient, you can help prevent gum disease by taking care of your teeth and visiting the dentist every six months. Knowing the signs of gum disease can help you bring up concerns with your dentist during checkups.
Understanding Gum Disease (Periodontitis)
Gum disease is an infection in the gums. In its early stages, gum disease is mild and manageable. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and irreversible bone damage.
Early diagnosis and treatment can halt the progression of this condition and prevent further oral health complications.
The Four Stages of Gum Disease
There are four stages of gum disease.
- Stage 1: Gingivitis – Early symptoms of gum disease include bleeding gums, inflammation, and redness.
- Stage 2: Slight Jawbone Resorption – In the second stage of periodontal disease, the jawbone begins to shrink, often without noticeable symptoms.
- Stage 3: Moderate Jawbone Resorption – As the disease progresses, gum recession and loose teeth appear as bone loss worsens.
- Stage 4: Advanced Periodontitis – The advanced stage of gum disease can cause pain, tooth mobility, and significant bone loss. This often requires complex treatment.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
Your dentist will be able to identify gum disease. Attending regular checkups can help you catch gum disease in its early stages. Here are some of the symptoms you may notice if you’re affected by gum disease:
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Chronic bad breath (halitosis)
- Receding gum line and exposed roots
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods
Diagnosing Gum Disease
Dentists assess gum health by measuring pocket depth between teeth and gums. While the healthy range is 1–3 mm, pockets over 4 mm indicate periodontitis and potential bone loss. X-rays help determine the extent of jawbone deterioration and guide treatment.
Preventing and Treating Gum Disease
Maintain strong oral hygiene habits. Floss daily, brush twice each day, and use fluoridated mouthwash. Continue to see your dentist, since professional cleaning targets areas that toothbrushes can’t reach once gum pockets deepen.
Gum Disease Treatment
Gum disease treatment can range from non-surgical to surgical. Non-surgical treatments include:
- Scaling is a procedure that removes tartar under the gums.
- Root Planing smooths root surfaces to prevent bacterial buildup.
- Antibiotics control infection and inflammation to help the gums recover.
Surgical options are reserved for severe cases. This can include flap surgery for deep cleaning, bone or soft tissue grafts to rebuild lost structure, and guided tissue regeneration to encourage healing.
Do You Need Help With Gum Disease? Contact Weninger Dentistry
Don’t let gum disease ruin your dental health. Take care of your teeth with a dentist you can trust. If you think you have gum disease, contact Weninger Dentistry for evaluation and treatment.