Do you know the types of gum disease?
Gum disease is categorized into three stages, from the somewhat minor and treatable to the comparatively severe.
There are treatments available for all types of periodontal gum disease.
The sooner you can begin treatments the better, because then Doctor Wilhite can help stop your gum disease from becoming more serious.
To evaluate your gum disease or begin treatment,
please call our office at 972-964-3774
THE THREE STAGES OF GUM DISEASE
Gingivitis – The earliest stage of gum disease is gingivitis.
This is categorized as an inflammation of the gums. You may experience some bleeding of the gums during brushing and flossing. Gingivitis is caused by plaque buildup at the gum line.
Sometimes it can be treated with daily brushing and flossing to remove plaque, although it can often require a professional plaque cleaning from your dentist.
At this early stage in gum disease, permanent damage can be reversed with treatment because the bone and tissue around your teeth are not yet affected.
Periodontitis – When gingivitis become more advanced, it can turn into periodontitis.
This happens when your gingivitis progresses into the deeper tissues that attach your teeth to the bone. Your gums may begin to form a pocket below the gumline, which traps food and plaque.
Periodontitis will eventually result in bone loss of the jaw. About 10% of the population develops full-blown periodontitis with progressive bone loss.
Even at this stage of advancing gum disease, treatment from Dr Wilhite and careful dental care at home can help prevent further damage.
Advanced Periodontitis – This is the most serious and final stage of gum disease.
Advanced periodontitis occurs when the bone and fibers that support your teeth decay. There is a severe bone loss of the tooth\’s root.
This can cause your teeth to become loose, abscesses to form, and red, swollen, painful gums. When the periodontitis becomes severe, it can affect your bite.
Aggressive treatment will be required, and if it proves ineffective, teeth may need to be removed.
The best treatment for gum disease is to begin treating it immediately.
With immediate treatment, we may be able to keep it from becoming more severe and causing permanent issues.
Call us at (972) 964-3774 or click here to contact us today for a free consultation and we’ll discuss your goals and options with periodontal gum disease therapy.
We can also discuss our affordable financing and dental insurance options that make it easy to get the dental care you need.
