Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is the No. 1 cause of tooth loss in adults. Tooth loss in adults can be especially devastating, causing embarrassment and self-consciousness and leading to expensive dental repair work. It’s important to take great care of teeth from childhood into adulthood to prevent decay and disease. Here are the three main stages pf gum disease so you can understand it better and hopefully prevent it with good oral hygiene and regularly scheduled dental exams and cleanings.
Stage 1: Gingivitis
The first stage of gum disease often goes unnoticed because the majority of symptoms include bad breath and red, swollen or bleeding gums. Some people may not even notice these symptoms. At this stage the damage is reversible if treatment is sought right away and improvements are made to the patient’s daily oral care routine at home.
Stage 2: Moderate Periodontal Disease
In the second stage of gum disease, the symptoms above are even more pronounced and gums may even be tender and sore. Patients may notice the gums pulling away from the teeth very slightly and beginning to form small pockets around the base of the tooth. At this stage, it’s possible that damage has become so pronounced it’s not completely reversible, and if treatment isn’t begun soon, the damage will definitely be permanent.
Stage 3: Advanced Periodontal Disease
When pockets have formed around teeth and gums begin to recede noticeably, stage three of gum disease is most likely occurring. At this point, bone and tissue loss is possible and teeth may become loose or even fall out.
The key to stopping gum disease in its tracks and in some cases even reversing damage that has been done is early detection and early treatment. This is one of the many reasons maintaining your twice-a-year professional cleanings and exams with Dr. Lesko is extremely important in order to keep an eye out for any problems and treat them at the earliest signs.
For more information on gum disease or to schedule an appointment, call us today at 970-221-5115.
Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:
970-221-5115
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
2001 S Shields St Bldg L
Fort Collins, Colorado
80526
