Recognizing the Signs of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease or periodontitis, is a serious dental condition that shouldn’t be ignored. It’s linked with serious health conditions and the leading cause of tooth loss.

The symptoms start out mild and worsen over time. Because of this, it may be difficult for people to recognize the disease, making them feel like it snuck up on them.

There are three levels of periodontal disease. Knowing what the signs and symptoms of each stage are will help our patients in Lewisville, Coppell, and the DFW area know how to recognize when they should seek periodontal disease treatment at the dentist’s.

Stage One: Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the earliest form of gum disease. It occurs when plaque containing bacteria builds up on teeth and causes your gum tissue to become inflamed.

If you have this condition, you’ll see red, puffy, sore, and inflamed gums.  Gum tissue that bleeds when you brush and floss your teeth is a sure sign of gingivitis.

Stage Two: Early Periodontal Disease

In the early stages of periodontitis, the tartar buildup on your teeth continues to develop and enters below the gumline. This stage causes your gums to pull away from your teeth and leaves a small pocket that fills with harmful bacteria and infection.

During this time, you’ll see more bleeding during brushing and flossing, along with more tenderness. You may also have persistent bad breath and a slight amount of bone loss in the jaw. Early symptoms are most noticeable during your dental exam (when we complete a periodontal evaluation and X-rays.)

Stage Three: Moderate Periodontitis

If the issue is still ignored, you’ll begin to notice signs of moderate periodontal disease. During this stage, the infection that’s below the gumline begins breaking down the bone that holds the roots of your teeth in place.

You’ll continue to see the red, puffy, inflamed gums and experience halitosis.  In addition, you may notice that some of your teeth are tender and loose. Since bone loss continues to worsen, your teeth may shift, resulting in large gaps between them. You may also notice that your teeth are starting to protrude out of your mouth at an angle.

Stage Four: Advanced Gum Disease

Continued oversight of gum disease leads to an advanced stage of periodontitis and irreversible bone loss. As the jaw bone continues to break down and shrink, you’re left with an unstable foundation for your tooth’s roots.

You’ll have several teeth that are significantly loose. It may even hurt you to bite your teeth together because it causes them to move. Some teeth may fall out on their own, while others need to be extracted.

What to Do If You Recognize Gum Disease

The sooner you seek dental care, the better outcome you will have. If you’re looking for a dentist in Lewisville, Coppell, or DFW, you’ve come to the right place! We’re here to assist you in getting gum disease under control, and maintain a healthy mouth.

When you’re our patient, there’s no need to be fearful or ashamed.  It’s our mission to take care of your smile and we enjoy doing it. Call Solid Smiles today to schedule a consultation.