Reviewed by Dr. Alan Baughman, DMD, MBA
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a serious oral health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Unfortunately, it often goes unnoticed until it reaches advanced stages.
This disease can range from mild inflammation in the gums to a severe condition that can damage the bones and soft tissue that support your teeth. Understanding the progression of periodontal disease is crucial for maintaining oral health and overall well-being.
In this blog, we will explore the five stages of periodontal disease and their symptoms. We’ll also talk about what you can do to prevent gum disease and the available treatment options.
Table of Contents
- What Is Periodontal Disease?
- What Are the 5 Stages of Periodontal Disease?
- How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?
- How to Prevent Periodontal Disease?
- Clearwater Dentistry: The Best Dentist in Greeley, CO
- Periodontal Disease FAQ
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is an infection that damages the gums and bones supporting the teeth due to bacteria.
It occurs when bacteria present in plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, causes inflammation and infection, which leads to the destruction of gum tissue and bone that hold your teeth in place. If left untreated, plaque hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional with scaling.
It can range from mild, early-stage gum inflammation (gingivitis) to severe, advanced periodontitis, which can result in tooth loss and other health problems.
Learn more about how gum disease can affect your overall health in our blog, Maintain Good Oral Hygiene To Prevent Tooth Decay and Gum Disease.
Key Takeaway
Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the gums and bones supporting the teeth. The condition has five stages and has a better treatment outcome the earlier it is detected. The treatment varies with the stage and may include professional cleanings, scaling and root planing, and, in severe cases, surgery.
What Are the 5 Stages of Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease has five stages, each with varying levels of severity. Gum disease is a progressive condition; without treatment, it can worsen over time.
Stage 1: Healthy Gums
In this stage, your gums are healthy, and there is no evidence of inflammation. When you look in the mirror and smile, there should be a uniform band of light pink tissue surrounding each tooth. No visible swelling or bleeding should occur when brushing or flossing — not even mild irritation.
Stage 2: Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the mildest stage of periodontal disease. The effects can be reversed at this point, and the damage is considered non-permanent. In this stage, the body’s natural defense mechanisms fight against plaque buildup and cause mild inflammation.
Symptoms of Gingivitis:
- Bleeding during brushing or flossing
- Red and tender gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Inflammation
The treatment for gingivitis usually involves improved oral hygiene practices, regular dental cleanings, and preventive care.
Stage 3: Early Periodontitis
Early periodontitis is the second stage of gum disease. In this stage, the damage spreads beyond the gums and affects the bone supporting your teeth.
Symptoms of Early Periodontitis:
- Receding gums
- Formation of pockets between teeth and gums
- Increased sensitivity in teeth
- Bad breath that persists even after brushing and flossing
At this stage, professional deep cleaning is necessary to prevent further damage and preserve the teeth. At-home management includes improved brushing and flossing or prescription mouth rinses.
Stage 4: Moderate Periodontitis
In moderate periodontitis, the disease affects bone and soft tissue structures, forming pockets around the teeth. These pockets can trap food and plaque, worsening bacterial spread and resulting in tooth mobility.
Symptoms of Moderate Periodontitis:
- Receding gums
- Tooth sensitivity
- Pus around teeth
- New spacing between teeth
- Loose teeth
A more aggressive form of dental deep cleaning called scaling and root planing may be required, along with topical medications to treat affected areas.
Stage 5: Advanced Periodontitis
As periodontitis advances, bleeding and sensitivity can worsen, and teeth may move or shift significantly. The infection can severely damage the bone that holds teeth in the jaw. If left untreated, this can have irreversible consequences, which may require surgical intervention.
Symptoms of Advanced Periodontitis:
- Exposed roots
- Infection spreading to the jaw
- Painful chewing
- Teeth that have changed position
- Obvious gum recession
Treatment at this stage often involves bone grafts, flap surgery, or tissue grafting to restore gum health and bone structures.
How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?
The treatment of periodontal disease varies depending on the stage and severity of the condition. The primary goal of any treatment is to control the infection and preserve remaining bone or restore any damage that has occurred. Here are the standard treatments for gum disease:
- Professional dental cleaning: During a regular check-up, a dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. If gingivitis has progressed to early periodontitis, professional cleanings may need to be more frequent.
- Scaling and root planing: Also known as a dental deep cleaning, it involves removing tartar from above and below the gum line and smoothing out any rough spots on the tooth roots to prevent bacteria from building up again.
- Medications: Antibiotics may be prescribed to control bacterial infections. Topical antibiotics can also be placed directly into the periodontal pockets to promote healing.
- Bone grafting: In cases of advanced periodontitis, bone grafting may be necessary to replace lost bone and promote bone regeneration.
- Flap surgery: In this procedure, the gums are lifted to remove tartar deposits and then secured back in place to reduce pocket depths.
- Soft tissue grafts: Tissue is taken from another area of the mouth and used to cover exposed tooth roots.
How to Prevent Periodontal Disease?
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to keep your gums healthy and prevent gum disease:
- Maintain a clean mouth by brushing at least twice daily, flossing, and using an antiseptic mouthwash.
- Eat a balanced diet and limit sugary foods and drinks.
- See your dentist every six months for routine check-ups to catch any signs of periodontal disease early on.
- Quit smoking, as it can increase your risk of gum disease and hinder treatment success.
For more tips on how to improve your oral hygiene routine, read our blog, Healthy Smiles: Dental Hygiene Tips for Every Age.
Clearwater Dentistry: The Best Dentist in Greeley, CO
Periodontal disease is a silent yet significant health concern. You can work towards a healthier smile by understanding the stages, recognizing the symptoms, and taking proactive steps in prevention and treatment.
Clearwater Dentistry is committed to delivering exceptional dental care to all our patients. We use advanced dental techniques and technology to ensure that every visit is comfortable, convenient, and customized to meet your dental needs. Whether you’re looking for preventive care or extensive treatment, Dr. Baughman is here to support you at every stage of the process.
If you are searching for ‘gum disease treatment in Greeley, CO’ or a ‘gum disease treatment near me,’ we can help. Call (970) 515-3550 or complete the online booking form. A healthy smile is just a call away!
Periodontal Disease FAQ
Yes, with proper treatment and improved oral hygiene practices, it is possible to slow down or stop the progression of periodontitis. However, catching the disease in its early stages is essential for successful management.
Gums cannot technically grow back, but they can be restored to a healthier state with professional dental care and good oral hygiene habits. In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary.
The rate of progression varies from person to person and depends on various factors, such as overall health and oral hygiene habits. In general, untreated gingivitis can progress to periodontitis in a few months or years. However, the disease can also remain stable for extended periods before worsening.
If left untreated, periodontal disease can eventually lead to tooth loss. However, with timely and appropriate treatment, the progression of the disease can be stopped or slowed down, reducing the risk of tooth loss. Early detection and prevention are key to maintaining a healthy smile.
If you are searching for ‘the best dentist near me,’ contact the experts at Clearwater Dentistry.
