The Four Stages of Periodontitis

Periodontal diseases progress in four stages in patients. From inception to the later stages of infection, periodontitis can end up affecting the gums, jawbones, and even the roots of the teeth. It affects nearly 50% of all Americans below the age of 30, regardless of their sex or age. Given the severity of this condition, proper and timely treatment becomes very important for patients.

Common Stages of Periodontal Diseases

Gingivitis is the first sign of periodontitis. Signs of this disease include the buildup of plaque around teeth. In this stage, the infection has not yet reached the sensitive places of the mouth, which is why it is usually painless and easily reversible. Poor dental hygiene is the common cause for gingivitis but other factors such as diabetes, genetics, hormonal changes, and certain illnesses like AIDS can also contribute to it.

Slight Periodontal disease is the next stage of periodontitis which means the infection has reached the bones. Patients may experience swelling and bleeding of gums, pain, and discomfort during chewing. The bacterial infection at this stage is aggressive and could quickly spread to other areas if not treated right away.

In the third stage of periodontitis, the symptoms of infection are similar to stage two but more severe. Once the bacterial infection burrows deep inside your mouth cavity, it reaches your bloodstream which can start affecting your immunity. Unlike stage one, moderate periodontal diseases are not reversible and require an immediate intervention by medical personnel. If left unattended, the infection can lead to excessive gum bleeding, tooth loss, sensitivity and swelling.

Advanced Periodontal Disease is the final stage of periodontitis in which the bacteria evolves further and reaches the bone. There is a 50%-90% chance for patients to suffer bone loss at this stage besides other debilitating symptoms. Pus builds up around the periodontal cavities which leads to severe pain, redness, and cold sensitivity.

Treatment for Periodontal Diseases

Periodontal diseases can progress very quickly in some patients and give rise to other serious illnesses which can take a toll on your mental and physical health. Book an appointment with us to learn more about the stages of periodontitis.