Gum disease, or periodontal disease, affects the tissues surrounding and supporting your teeth. It begins with plaque buildup on your teeth. Untreated disease can lead to tooth loss. Gum disease progresses in stages. The first stage is gingivitis. The second stage is periodontitis. Each stage has different symptoms and treatments. Understanding these stages helps in early detection and treatment. Early intervention could prevent severe complications.
Early Stages of Gum Disease
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. Symptoms include red, swollen gums that bleed easily. Gingivitis is often reversible with good oral hygiene. Regular dental check-ups can detect gingivitis early. Early treatment prevents progression to more severe stages. Gingivitis does not usually cause pain. This makes it easy to overlook. However, ignoring gingivitis can lead to more serious problems. Brushing and flossing regularly can reverse gingivitis. Using an antibacterial mouthwash can also help. Regular dental cleanings are crucial. They remove plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing miss.
Advanced Stages
If untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis involves inflammation around the tooth. Gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets. These pockets become infected. The body’s immune system fights the bacteria as the plaque spreads below the gum line. Toxins produced by the bacteria and the body’s response to infection start to break down the bone and connective tissue. Without treatment, the bones, gums, and tissue supporting the teeth are destroyed. Teeth may eventually become loose and need to be removed.
Periodontitis is more challenging to treat than gingivitis. Treatment may involve scaling and root planing. This deep-cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary. Surgical treatments can include flap surgery and bone grafts. These procedures are more invasive and costly. Early intervention could prevent the need for such treatments.
Health Risks of Untreated Gum Disease
Untreated periodontal disease can lead to serious health issues. Studies link it to heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Bacteria from your mouth can enter your bloodstream. This can cause inflammation in other parts of your body. Treating gum disease reduces these risks. Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene are crucial. Treating gum disease could improve overall health and reduce the risk of these serious conditions.
Cost Implications
Treating periodontal disease early is often cost-effective. Early treatment involves less invasive procedures. Scaling and root planing can treat early gum disease. These procedures are less costly than surgical treatments. Advanced gum disease may require surgery. Surgery is more expensive and complex. Early detection and treatment save money and time.
Ignoring gum disease can lead to tooth loss. Replacing lost teeth is expensive. Options include dental implants, bridges, and dentures. These treatments are costly and time-consuming. They also require ongoing maintenance. Preventing gum disease is more cost-effective. It avoids the need for these expensive treatments.
Maintaining Oral Health
Good oral hygiene often prevents disease. Brush your teeth twice a day. Use fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth. Regular dental check-ups are essential. Your dentist can detect early signs of periodontal disease. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar. Early treatment maintains your oral health. Diet also plays a role in oral health. Eating a balanced diet supports healthy gums. Avoid sugary foods and drinks. They contribute to plaque buildup. Drinking plenty of water helps wash away food particles. Chewing sugar-free gum stimulates saliva production. Saliva helps neutralize acids and wash away food particles.
Treating gum disease early could prevent serious health issues. At Lee, Bonfiglio, Vesely & Associates, we provide gum disease treatment at any stage. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our periodontal therapy process.
