🦷 What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal (gum) disease is a progressive infection of the gums caused by bacteria buildup. It starts with gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and, if left untreated, can progress to periodontitis, which damages the bone and supporting structures of your teeth.
✔ Early detection is key—routine dental checkups help prevent serious gum and bone loss.
✔ Good oral hygiene & regular cleanings can keep gum disease from developing or worsening.
💡 Stages of Gum Disease & Symptoms:
🦷 Stage 1: Healthy Gums
✅ Firm, pink gums that fit snugly around the teeth.
✅ No bleeding, swelling, or bad breath.
✅ Strong bone structure supporting the teeth.
🩸 Stage 2: Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease)
Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease and affects only the soft gum tissue. It is reversible with proper care.
❗ Symptoms of Gingivitis:
🔹 Red, swollen, or bleeding gums, especially after brushing or flossing.
🔹 Bad breath or a persistent metallic taste in the mouth.
🔹 Receding gums or slight spacing between teeth.
✔ Treatment: Professional cleanings, improved oral hygiene, and regular dental visits can fully reverse gingivitis.
🦷 Stage 3: Early Periodontitis
At this stage, inflammation causes gums to pull away from teeth, forming pockets that trap food and bacteria. Infection begins to affect the bone supporting your teeth.
❗ Symptoms of Early Periodontitis:
🔹 Increased gum recession, exposing more of the tooth.
🔹 Formation of pockets between gums and teeth.
🔹 Mild bone loss visible on X-rays.
✔ Treatment: Scaling & root planing (deep cleaning), antimicrobial therapy, and improved home care.
🦷 Stage 4: Moderate Periodontitis
As periodontitis progresses, bone loss increases, and teeth begin to loosen due to the loss of support.
❗ Symptoms of Moderate Periodontitis:
🔹 More severe gum recession and larger pockets.
🔹 Teeth may begin to shift or loosen.
🔹 Pain or discomfort when chewing.
✔ Treatment: Deep cleanings, gum therapy, and in some cases, bone grafting or regenerative procedures to restore lost bone.
🦷 Stage 5: Advanced Periodontitis
In the most severe stage, infection spreads beneath the gums, leading to painful abscesses, significant bone loss, and tooth loss.
❗ Symptoms of Advanced Periodontitis:
🔹 Chronic pain, severe inflammation, and gum abscesses.
🔹 Teeth shifting or falling out.
🔹 Increased risk of systemic health issues (heart disease, diabetes, respiratory infections).
✔ Treatment: Advanced periodontal surgery, bone grafting, tooth extractions, and dental implants may be necessary.
🦷 How to Prevent Gum Disease
✔ Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
✔ Floss every day to remove plaque between teeth.
✔ Use an antibacterial mouthwash to kill harmful bacteria.
✔ Visit your dentist every six months for professional cleanings.
✔ Avoid smoking and limit sugary foods and drinks.
💡 Early detection can save your teeth!
📞 Call 212-683-2530 to schedule a gum health evaluation at Manhattan Dental Spa today.
At Manhattan Dental Spa, we believe in preventing and treating gum disease before it leads to serious health problems. Whether you need a routine cleaning, deep gum therapy, or advanced periodontal treatment, we are here to help. Your smile deserves the best care! 😊