Periodontal disease is inflammation of the tissue around the teeth caused by bacterial growth is common. It is estimated that 64.7 million Americans have it and often times there are no symptoms until it is too late. If this disease is diagnosed in its earliest form (Gingivitis) it can be reversed and tooth loss prevented. There are four stages of gum disease.
Gingivitis is the earliest form of periodontal disease and it is reversible. This stage typically has mild symptoms that go unnoticed by the individual.
This stage has minor bone loss and is the beginning of permanent damage.
More bone loss is noted and sometimes the patient may start to have symptoms such as tender gums, recession or bleeding gums
At this stage some teeth will be loose and not savable
There are two ways a tooth can become infected. Most common is from a cavity. Periodontal disease can also cause tooth infection due to bone loss. Bone loss cannot be reversed. Treating this disease early is key
Periodontal tooth infections have a very poor prognosis and result in extractions.
Bacteria causes periodontal disease and it is linked to many systemic health problems such as heart disease, dementia, diabetes, pneumonia and cancer.
Bacteria is typically the cause of bad breath. Periodontal disease can cause very bad breath that the individual is not aware of.
Our golden years often lead to new dental problems due to medications and systemic health issues. Regular dental visits are more crucial now than before.
When was the last time you saw a dentist? Did you know cavities can form in less than a year? Call us today to get an exam.
No matter what you are dealing with (missing, broken or infected teeth) we can help you get your oral health back on track.
Do you have bad breath, recession, bleeding gums, mobile teeth or pain when you floss? These are all signs of gum disease.
