Posted on 4/12/2021 by Center for Advanced Periodontics and Implant Dentistry
Periodontal disease is commonly known as gum disease. It is a type of infection in the gum that affects the soft gum tissues around the roots of our teeth. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the root of teeth and result in tooth decay and tooth loss.
Periodontal disease is one of the most common dental problems in the world. According to one research study, periodontal disease affects between 20% to 50% of the people in the world and is prevalent in both developing and developed countries.
The most common causes of periodontal disease are:
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Poor oral hygiene
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Smoking
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Poor Diet (Deficiency of vitamin C)
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Genetics
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Diabetes
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Stress
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Hormonal changes
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Side effects of anti-biotics
Generally, periodontal disease has four stages, which are stated below:
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. It is the onset of a bacterial infection in our gums. This is the only stage where the infection can be inhibited before it spreads to the teeth bone and affects your teeth. Hence it is known as the reversible stage of periodontal disease. When the bacterial accumulation on our teeth and gumline intensifies, it turns into plaque. When the plague is left untreated, the bacteria spread further into our gums and cause an infection. This leads to inflammation, swelling, and bleeding in our gums.
Slight Periodontal Disease
The second stage of periodontal disease is where the bacterial infection spreads to the teeth bone and affects the fibrous tissues and bone at the root of our teeth. The bacteria slowly start to damage the teeth bone leading to its slow decay. The damage to the teeth, bones, and surrounding fibrous tissues can be prevented by scaling and root planing. Both of these are methods of deep cleaning to stop bacterial growth in the gums.
Moderate Periodontal Disease
The third stage of periodontal disease is where the bacteria manage to eat away the teeth bone and enter the teeth pulp. This is the stage where the bacteria enter the bloodstream and inhibit the uptake of nutrients by the teeth. Even at this stage, the surrounding teeth can be saved from infection by deep cleaning the tooth that has been severely affected by bacteria.
Advanced Periodontal Disease
This is the fourth and final stage periodontal disease. In this stage, bacteria manage to damage the teeth bone completely. This is known as tooth decay. Big holes appear in the teeth, especially at the root of the tooth, and the tooth becomes so weak and lose that it can easily fall off. At this stage, your dentist may recommend using laser therapy or periodontal surgery to deep clean the affected teeth and gums. But if, at this stage, too, you choose to leave the gum disease untreated, you may have to wear dentures to hide the missing teeth.
If you are suffering from a periodontal disease, then visit us at Center for Advanced Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, and consult Dr. Gus Dehni DMD and . They can help you find the best treatment method for your periodontal disease. You can also call us at 508-996-3131 to schedule your appointment.
Trusted Periodontal Practice in New Bedford, MA | Center for Advanced Periodontics and Implant Dentistry Discover our trusted periodontal practice in New Bedford, MA. Our dedicated team combines expertise, advanced techniques, and compassionate care to deliver exceptional periodontal services. Learn about our commitment to health! Center for Advanced Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, 930 Pleasant St, New Bedford, MA 02740-6623 + 508-996-3131 + advancedperio.org + 3/12/2025 + Key Phrases: Periodontist New Bedford MA Falmouth MA +
Periodontal disease is commonly known as gum disease. It is a type of infection in the gum that affects the soft gum tissues around the roots of our teeth. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the root of teeth and result in tooth decay and tooth loss.