Periodontitis, or periodontal disease, is one of the most common oral health problems among American adults. Though most people believe that bad oral hygiene is the only cause, there are various reasons a person might develop the disease.
For instance, women with hormonal issues or who are going through hormonal changes like menopause and pregnancy, are more likely to develop periodontitis. Other factors that increase a person’s risk of developing periodontal disease include:
- Age
- Tobacco use
- Genetics
- Stress
- Medications
- Bruxism (teeth grinding)
- Autoimmune diseases
- Obesity
Periodontitis doesn’t always make itself known, but there are several symptoms to look for and different stages of gum disease that every adult should be aware of. Continue reading to learn everything you need to know about periodontitis.
Stage 1: Gingivitis
The first stage of periodontal disease is called gingivitis. It’s probably the most talked-about stage as well. Toothpaste commercials often refer to bleeding gums as “a little pink in the sink” because this is usually the first noticeable sign of a problem.
Gingivitis begins when the bacteria in the mouth gets off balance. Typically, this occurs when plaque builds up on the gum line, turns into tartar, and invades the gums. Other common symptoms include bad breath and swollen, red gums. At this point, the disease is reversible, but it is imperative that patients visit the dentist for a deep dental cleaning.
Stage 2: Early Periodontitis
In this next stage, the gums begin to pull away from the teeth and small pockets of harmful bacteria form. While the person’s immune system fights against the infection, it actually only fuels the bacteria, and the gum tissue continues to recede.
The symptoms from stage one will continue, but the person will also experience bone loss, though it probably won’t be noticeable until it reaches a more advanced stage.
Stage 3: Moderate Periodontal Disease
When left untreated, the disease continues to progress, and the person may experience pain around their teeth. Continued bone loss will also result in loose teeth. Additionally, the infection may lead to an inflammatory response in other parts of the body.
Stage 4: Advanced Periodontitis
The final and most destructive stage of periodontitis involves the deterioration of the connective tissues that hold the teeth in place. The person will likely experience severe pain while eating, continuous bad breath, and a foul taste in their mouth. Unfortunately, at this point, patients usually lose all or most of their teeth.
Treatments for Periodontitis
Our dental practice uses new technology combined with traditional, reliable treatment methods for periodontitis. These include:
- Root Planing and Scaling: This is the most conservative treatment method for gum disease. It can be effective in the early stages of development. The dentist begins with thoroughly cleaning and removing the plaque and tartar from the gum line. Eventually, the periodontal pockets shrink, and the patient is able to maintain the areas with regular brushing and flossing.
- Laser Pocket Decontamination: This treatment can sometimes be used in lieu of surgery. It’s highly effective and minimally invasive. Our dentist uses precise dental lasers that eliminate bacteria from the periodontal pockets which aids in the healing of the infection.
- Laser Gum Surgery: This breakthrough treatment allows dentists to clear away the infection without the use of a scalpel and sutures.
In severe cases, gum grafts, guided tissue regeneration, and bone grafting may also be necessary. However, the goal is always to catch the disease before it becomes destructive enough to require these treatments.
Regardless, when you choose a dentist like Dr. Helen Ragsdale who utilizes dental lasers and the latest technology, you can trust that you’re getting the safest, most effective care.
To schedule an initial consultation with our friendly dental team, call us today at (512) 346-4690.
