Did you know that poor gum health is associated with an increased risk of death from all causes?
Regularly visiting the dentist can help catch early gum disease stages, reducing this increased risk. It’s also crucial for maintaining long-term oral health and reducing the risk of future tooth loss.
By knowing the signs of early gum disease, tracking your oral health condition can be easier. Making small changes in your daily oral hygiene routine can help you prevent gum disease.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup around the teeth. The most common symptom of gingivitis is red, swollen gums that may bleed slightly when brushing. Other symptoms may include tenderness, bad breath, and localized pain when eating.
It is important to pay attention to these early stages of gum disease as they can lead to more serious oral health issues if left untreated. By regularly brushing and flossing, avoiding smoking, and visiting the dentist regularly, gingivitis can be prevented and, if already present, can be treated.
Slight Periodontal Disease
Slight Periodontal Disease is defined as the very early stages of gum disease and often goes unrecognized or untreated. Symptoms can include mild inflammation that can affect the gums, making them appear swollen and red.
Sensitivity to flossing or brushing or occasional bleeding of the gums during brushing are other signs of slight periodontal disease. Over time, if left untreated, it can progress to more severe periodontal disease.
In the early stage, it can be treated with professional attention and a modified oral hygiene routine, which includes more frequent brushing, flossing, and rinsing.
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Moderate Periodontal Disease
During moderate periodontal disease, the gums are often red and puffy and may bleed easily. The supporting fibers can be affected due to ongoing tissue destruction, and the bone can become weakened.
Teeth may become loose as the roots become exposed, and pockets of gum can form, allowing plaque and tartar to accumulate. Tooth loss may occur due to inflammation which can disrupt the root tissue and pull the tooth away from the bone.
The key to controlling and stopping the progression of moderate periodontal disease is an effective oral hygiene routine which can keep inflammation and plaque buildup to a minimum.
Advanced Periodontal Disease
Advanced periodontal disease is a serious issue and can cause tooth loss if it is not treated promptly. It involves severe inflammation of the gums, which can cause pockets to form between teeth and gums.
This allows bacteria to enter the deeper pockets and compromise the bone structure that supports the teeth. Advanced periodontal disease will cause pain and discomfort, and professional treatment is necessary to restore health to the gums. Find here the best orthodontics to help you with the treatment.
Learn About Gum Disease Stages
These early gum disease stages are an important warning sign that something is not quite right in your oral health and needs to be taken seriously. Ignoring them can lead to further serious oral health complications.
You should schedule an appointment with your dentist to ensure proper preventative treatment and long-term oral health.
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