Gum disease affects millions of Americans and poses a significant threat to your oral health. Also called periodontal disease, it’s an inflammation of the gums that also can affect the bone surrounding your teeth, causing tooth loss. It’s the result of plaque, tartar, and bacteria buildup due to inadequate brushing and flossing. The disease is progressive, defined by three primary phases.

3 Stages of Periodontal Disease

1. Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the first and most common level of periodontal disease. It starts when plaque and tartar accumulate to cause inflammation. Bacteria collect where the tooth meets the gum and release toxins that irritate the sensitive tissue. If you experience slight bleeding while you’re brushing and flossing your teeth or notice your gums are unusually red, you probably have gingivitis. You can reverse the effects with proper dental care.

2. Periodontitis

The second stage of gum disease begins when the bone and fibers that hold teeth in place suffer irreversible damage. Dentists say a major sign of periodontitis is the formation of pockets under the tissue where the teeth and gums meet. They trap food and bacteria, worsening the situation. An excellent oral hygiene routine will prevent further damage.

3. Advanced Periodontitis

If you don’t address periodontitis, it will move on to an advanced state. During this final stage of periodontal disease, bones and fibers around the teeth become so damaged they no longer can do their job. Teeth shift, loosen, or even fall out, and extraction is the last resort for treatment. As a follow-up, your dentist might recommend dental implants or another restorative procedure.

When you detect periodontal disease early, all you need to do to treat it is improve your oral hygiene routine. However,  it can affect your smile permanently if it festers, so visit a dentist as soon as possible to seek help.

If you need an experienced dentist to catch warning signs of oral health problems, contact Brian S. Kubo, DDS, in Kamuela, HI. He has been practicing general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry for over a decade and can help you achieve optimal oral health. Call (808) 885-8465 to schedule an appointment and visit their website to learn more about the warning signs of periodontal disease. Check their Google+ page for additional advice from this Big Island dentist office.