It is essential to keep your gums healthy for good health. Gum disease can start mild but then evolve into a really serious dental issue. Knowing what the stages of gum disease are, from gingivitis to periodontitis, can help you take timely action to save your teeth and gums. Reading the stages of gum disease is the first step toward prevention and treatment, whether you’re looking for a dentist in St. Albert or a dental clinic in St. Albert.
Gingivitis: The First Stage That Signals Problems
Plaque, the sticky substance that builds up on teeth, causes gingivitis, which is the first stage of gum disease. Some symptoms are gums that bleed sometimes when brushing or flossing. At this stage, the disease is reversible with proper care.
Here are some oral hygiene tips to reverse early-stage gum disease that you can use at home.
- Brushing twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste.
- Make an effort to floss every day to remove plaque between teeth.
- Using an antiseptic mouthwash to reduce bacteria.
- Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings.
- Treating gingivitis on time can stop it from becoming more serious.
Stage 2: Early Periodontitis.
Not getting gingivitis treated will turn it into early periodontitis. Tartar is plaque that has hardened. Tartar can only be removed by a dental professional. The gums may start pulling away from the teeth, creating pockets that have more bacteria. If untreated, mild bone loss can occur around the teeth because of early periodontitis.
Ways to prevent the stages of gum disease from getting worse.
- Maintaining rigorous oral hygiene routines.
- Scheduling professional cleanings every 3-6 months.
- Stopping smoking greatly increases the risk of gum disease.
- It is essential to manage underlying health conditions, such as diabetes.
Intervening early can prevent gum disease from getting worse and causing periodontitis.
Stage 3: Moderate Periodontitis.
During this period, the infection gains access to the supporting tissues of the tooth. The gums become recessed, making the spaces deeper, thus causing further bone loss: bad breath, loosening of teeth, and pain in the gums. The treatment usually involves scaling and root planing, which helps get rid of tartar. Moreover, it also smooths the roots so that it can attach better to the gum.
Consistent follow-up and rigid home oral hygiene adherence are essential to halt the advance.
Stage 4: Advanced Periodontitis.
The worst gum disease is advanced periodontitis. Significant bone and tissue loss from the infection may cause tooth mobility or even tooth loss. Oral surgery or bone grafting may be needed to restore oral health at this point.
Those patients with periodontitis in St. Albert need professional care to avoid permanent damage.
Preventing Progression and Maintaining Healthy Gums.
To prevent gum disease or stop it from getting worse requires a commitment to both dental care and gum care. If you want to keep your gums healthy, then visit the dentist regularly. And also brush and floss correctly. Finally, adjust your lifestyle by eating smart and quitting smoking.
Conclusion.
By gaining insight into the various progressive stages of gum disease, you can take action against problems such as gingivitis to advanced periodontitis. Whether you are looking for a St. Albert dentist or a trustworthy dental clinic in St. Albert, Jensen Lakes Dental can help with all stages of gum disease. Our friendly dentist helps patients create custom plans to maintain gum health, prevent further progression, and restore health. Schedule your visit with a trusted dentist near you today to avoid serious gum disease.