Learn About the Stages of Periodontal Disease
At Fine Dental Care, we’re proud to offer groundbreaking gum disease treatments, placing us at the forefront of effective periodontal care. Our dedication to advanced dental treatments shines through our early adoption of the Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP®). While we excel in treating gum disease at any stage, prevention and early intervention are always the best strategies. Keep reading to discover more about the stages of periodontal disease and how to spot the warning signs early on.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, often called gum disease, is a major cause of tooth loss and can significantly affect oral health if not addressed promptly. It progresses through various stages, each with its own set of symptoms and treatment requirements.
Preventing Gum Disease
The best defense against gum disease is maintaining excellent oral hygiene and regular dental visits. We recommend biannual cleanings and checkups to catch any signs of gum disease early when it is most treatable and potentially reversible.
Gingivitis: The Early Stage
Gingivitis is the initial phase of gum disease, affecting only the soft tissue of the gums. In many cases, it doesn’t cause discomfort, so it may go undetected. Symptoms are often subtle but can include:
- Swollen or tender gums
- Gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath or a metallic taste
- Gum recession, leading to gaps between teeth
Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent the progression to more severe stages. Treatment typically involves professional cleaning and improved home care routines to remove plaque build-up.
Early Periodontitis
If gingivitis progresses unchecked, it evolves into early periodontitis. During this stage, gums begin to pull away from the teeth, forming small pockets where food particles and bacteria can accumulate. Signs of early periodontitis include:
- Increased inflammation and redness of the gums
- Development of periodontal pockets
- Initial bone loss around teeth, detectable by dental X-rays
Treatment may involve deeper cleaning techniques such as scaling and root planing to clean beneath the gum line and reduce pocket depth.
Moderate Periodontitis
As periodontitis advances, the following symptoms and complications can occur:
- More significant gum recession
- Loosening of teeth due to further loss of supporting bone
- Noticeable discomfort or pain around affected areas
- Formation of deep periodontal pockets filled with pus
More intensive treatments may be necessary in these stages, including local antibiotic applications and more extensive periodontal surgery. Depending on your situation, we may recommend LANAP® to regenerate lost tissues and bone or a gingival gum graft to combat gum recession. We can also use the Pinhole® Surgical Technique to reposition your gums over the exposed roots.
Advanced Periodontitis: The Final Stage
In its most severe form, advanced periodontitis can lead to:
- The formation of painful abscesses
- Severe bone loss
- High risk of tooth loss
Treatment for advanced periodontitis might require surgical interventions, specialized cleanings, and potentially tooth extractions if the damage is irreversible.
If you need a tooth removed due to gum disease, we can replace it quickly with a mini dental implant. These narrow-diameter implants are an ideal solution for replacing missing teeth efficiently, affordably, and effectively.
Navigate the Stages of Periodontal Disease at Fine Dental Care
If you’re experiencing signs of periodontal disease or are looking for expert dental care in the Wayne, NJ, area, contact Fine Dental Care. We are here to provide comprehensive evaluations and advanced treatment options to restore your oral health. Schedule an appointment with us today and take the first step toward healthier gums and teeth.