Understanding Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is one of the most common yet serious dental problems. The word “periodontal” translates to “around the tooth”, and refers to the spongy red mass at the base of your teeth. When your gums become diseased, it leads to a wide range of health problems down the line if left untreated. That’s why it’s vital to seek medical help when you first notice signs of periodontal disease.
3 Stages of Gum Disease
Gum disease can mean many different things depending on how long it’s been present and how severe the symptoms have become. Review the three stages of gum disease and see how each can affect your smile.
1. Gingivitis
2. Periodontitis
3. Advanced Periodontitis
Perils of Untreated Gum Disease
When the earliest form of gum disease, known as gingivitis, is left untreated, the result is increasingly worse for your oral health. Here are some of the problems you can expect if you don’t seek treatment for your gum disease:
- Gums recede and pull away from the teeth
- Pockets form between the teeth
- Gums become inflamed and infected
- Bone loss and tooth loss are likely
As you can see, even a common dental disease like gingivitis can lead to major consequences if ignored. That’s why it’s vital to keep up with your scheduled dental appointments and ensure that you don’t have any untreated gingivitis or other ailments.
Common Treatments for Gum Disease
These are some of the most frequently used treatments for periodontal disease:
- Scaling and Planing
- Gum Graft Surgery
- Laser Treatments
- Regenerative Procedures
- Dental Implants
Visit Dr. Crandall and Avoid Periodontitis
Excellent oral care at home is the best way to avoid periodontitis. But with advanced training and equipment, there’s no substitute for attending your biannual dental appointments. With the combination of consistent home care and the required professional care you need, gingivitis is far less likely to affect your life. Contact Artisan Dental Care to make an appointment.
