Periodontal Diseases

Signs of Gum Disease

Periodontal disease is often asymptomatic and can progress to a very advanced stage with little or no warning. However, there may be some subtle indications that all is not well, particularly if you are over age 35 and have not seen a dentist regularly. If your gums are red and tender, if your teeth have loosened or separated, if your bite has changed, if your gums have receded, or you have persistant bad breath you are likely to have some form of periodontal disease.

Types and Stages of Gum Disease

Gingivitis

This is the mildest form of gum disease and is basically defined as inflammation of the gum tissue without destruction of supporting bone. There is usually little or no discomfort. Gingivitis is driven by bacterial plaque and easily reversible with professional treatment supplemented by good oral home care.

Mild Periodontitis

If gingivitis is left untreated, it may progress to periodontitis. This is defined as the onset of soft tissue as well as bone destruction. There are typically little or no symptoms associated with this process. This is why early detection is so critically important.

Moderate and Advanced Periodontitis

As periodontal disease progresses from the mild form into more advanced forms, there is further tissue and bone destruction. This is when you may become aware of inflamed and tender gum tissue, looseness or drifting of teeth, pain or infection. Many times teeth are beyond the point of definitive treatment if a diagnosis is originally made when periodontal disease is advanced.