Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease
Gum (periodontal) disease is one of the most common oral concerns we see, as it affects nearly half the American population over the age of 30. Often taken for granted, the monotonous task of brushing and flossing our teeth daily has never been more important in order to avoid gum disease and reduce the risks gum disease place on our overall health. It has been estimated that 75% of Americans have some form of gum disease, which has been linked to serious health complications and causes various dental problems that are often avoidable.
70% OF ADULTS OVER 65 HAVE HAVE PERIODONTITIS
30% OF PEOPLE AGED 65–74 HAVE NO NATURAL TEETH
85 MILLION AMERICANS HAVE CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE
Research has also shown gum disease to be linked to our systemic health
Many of these health conditions include heart disease, diabetes and in some cases even stroke. Common symptoms of gum disease include:
- Red, swollen gums
- Bleeding gums
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Loose teeth
- Gum recession
- Sensitive teeth
There Are Three Stages of Gum Disease
![Stages of Gum Disease Clermont, FL](https://www.clermontlanap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/stage-1-gingivitis-2.jpg)
Stage 1: Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. It is caused by plaque buildup around the gumline which causes inflammation of the gums. If you neglect to brush or floss your teeth daily, this plaque buildup will trap bacteria that cause gum disease.Gingivitis causes inflammation of the gums. Gums that should otherwise be pink will appear red and swollen and you may experience bleeding when you brush or floss. However, at this point, gingivitis can still be reversed. The bone and fibers that hold your teeth in place have not yet been affected.
![Stages of Gum Disease Clermont, FL](https://www.clermontlanap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/stage-2-periodontitis-2.jpg)
Stage 2: Periodontitis
If gingivitis is left untreated, the condition will become periodontitis. At this stage, the supporting bone and fibers that hold your teeth in place have been irreversibly damaged. Your gums will begin to form “pockets”, deep hollow areas around the teeth that trap food, plaque, and bacteria. Your gums may begin to recede, forming gaps between your teeth. Immediate treatment is necessary to prevent further damage and tooth loss.
![Stages of Gum Disease Clermont, FL](https://www.clermontlanap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/stage-3-periodontitis-1-1.jpg)
Stage 3: Advanced Periodontitis
In this final stage of gum disease, periodontitis has been left untreated and has become advanced periodontitis. The bacteria that has been allowed to grow, spread, and cause destruction has destroyed the connective tissues and bone that support the teeth. The pockets that formed in the previous stage, have become much deeper. This can cause your teeth to shift or loosen. Loose teeth that move around in the mouth may affect your bite. At this state, aggressive treatment is needed to save the teeth.