When we discuss oral health and hygiene, both in-person at our office and when we post to our blog and social media accounts, we try to use terminology and language that is straightforward and easy to understand. We feel it is important for everyone, including our clients, potential clients and the general public at large, to clearly understand how diseases and conditions can affect their teeth, gums and mouth, the importance of maintaining good oral health and seeking treatment when the symptoms of a problem or condition begins to emerge. Periodontal disease is a somewhat intimidating term that may be unfamiliar to many people, but the effects of this condition, which is more commonly referred to as gum disease, can range from mild inflammation of the gums to a serious condition that can directly result in tooth loss.
Stage One: Gingivitis
There are three stages of periodontal disease, and the easiest way to transition to stage one, gingivitis, is to ignore regular appointments and cleanings at your dentist. Your mouth is rife with bacteria which sticks to your teeth and forms plaque. While regular flossing and brushing can remove the most of this plaque, the plaque that is left behind eventually hardens and becomes tartar. Only your dentist or dental hygienist can remove tarter with professional cleaning materials and tools, and if this tarter is not removed regularly, it can lead to gingivitis, or mild swelling and bleeding of the gums. Gingivitis can be easily reversed and does not directly result in tooth loss.
Stage Two: Periodontitis
If gingivitis is left untreated, it can lead to the second stage of periodontal disease, known as periodontitis. Periodontitis results in the gums pulling away from the teeth, leading to infection and the formation of pockets in your gums where food and bacteria can become trapped, resulting in more severe infections and inflammation. Luckily, with advanced laser treatments and a drastic improvement in oral hygiene, periodontitis is still reversible.
Stage Three: Advanced Periodontitis
If left untreated, periodontitis can lead to the third and final stage of periodontal disease, advanced periodontitis. Advanced periodontitis directly attacks and can completely destroy the bone and tissue holding teeth in place, and once this support system has broken down, teeth move, become loose and eventually fall out or have to be removed.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
While terms like “periodontal disease” and “periodontitis” may sound intimidating at first, the most effective way to prevent and treat the earliest stages of the disease and many other oral diseases and conditions is both simple and highly effective – visit your dentist and dental hygienist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups, and if your gums become mildly inflamed or begin to bleed, seek treatment immediately before the condition worsens.
For over 30 years, Dr. Lee Weisbard, D.D.S., and her team have provided Colorado and beyond with the highest quality dental experience available. And it all grew out of her compassion for others and a love for the dental arts.
She has the skills and committed excellence in cosmetic, general, and dental implant dentistry that brings you the best dental care in Greenwood Village, DTC, Englewood, Cherry Hills, Littleton, and the surrounding cities of Denver. She has received numerous awards and honors, including the prestigious 2018 Colorado Businesswoman of the Year award.