Common signs include persistent bad breath, tender or bleeding gums, and loose teeth. Regular dental visits, good oral hygiene, and a healthy lifestyle are key in prevention and management. While more advanced stages of gum disease can’t be completely cured, they can be managed and controlled through proper oral hygiene practices and professional dental care. With early intervention, gingivitis can often be reversed, and the progression of gum disease can be slowed or stopped. There is extensive destruction of the gums, bone, and other structures supporting the teeth.
As mentioned previously, healthy gums have a probing depth of 1-3 mm. At the gingivitis stage, probing depths will be about 2-4 mm. There are four stages of gum disease, although the lines between these are a bit blurred. Dealing with advanced periodontal status can be a painful and costly affair as your immune system won’t handle it on its own.
The inflammation worsens, and the pockets between the teeth and gums deepen. This allows bacteria to penetrate deeper, leading to more destruction of the bone supporting the teeth. You may notice gum recession and potentially some mobility or looseness of the teeth. At this stage, the early signs of periodontitis become apparent. There is generally no significant bone loss at this point.
Fortunately, bone grafting helps regenerate any bone that was lost to periodontal disease. At this stage, your bone and surrounding supporting tissue have been significantly destroyed. The objective of flap surgery is to reduce the depth of the periodontal pockets and regenerate the PDL fibers. If you are consistent with a proper oral hygiene regimen after the procedure, your gums should turn back to their smooth texture and natural pink color within a few weeks. Your dentist or hygienist will give you a dental prophylaxis, or “prophy.” This is what is known as a professional cleaning. It will consist of supragingival (above the gum line) and subgingival (below the gum line) removal of plaque, calculus, and staining.
By measuring and keeping track of the changes, a dentist is able to make the right recommendations for taking care of your teeth. It’s also helpful to know if a specialist might be needed. Now, I’m not telling you to go vegan, but I am telling you that it’s important to add fruits and vegetables to get your daily dose of vitamin C and calcium. The second mechanism is explained by the bacteria from your plaque crossing into the brain.
Gum disease is a common dental issue that can range from mild to severe. But how long until gum disease becomes serious? Let’s delve into the details to understand the progression of this condition.
Are you wondering what will happen if you just ignore your gum disease? Find out in this post and affordable easy steps you can take at home to treat it. Both gingivitis and periodontitis have been shown to raise your risk of things like diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, pneumonia, and cancer.
The Stages of Gum Disease
Gum disease typically starts as gingivitis, which is characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed easily when brushing or flossing. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss and other complications.
Factors Influencing Gum Disease Progression
Several factors can influence how quickly gum disease progresses from mild to serious:
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Not brushing and flossing regularly can allow plaque and tartar to build up, leading to gum inflammation and disease.
- Smoking: Tobacco use can worsen gum disease and make it harder to treat effectively.
- Genetics: Some individuals may be more prone to developing gum disease due to their genetic makeup.
Signs of Serious Gum Disease
It’s essential to recognize the signs of advanced gum disease, including:
- Receding Gums
- Persistent Bad Breath
- Loose Teeth
- Painful Chewing
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to see your dentist promptly for evaluation and treatment.
