Periodontal disease is one of the most common dental problems in the U.S. It’s caused by bacteria infecting the gums around your teeth. You’ve probably heard it described as gum disease. Periodontal disease can be prevented and can also be reversed if caught soon enough.
This short guide contains answers to the most common questions we get asked about periodontal disease.
The symptoms depend on how advanced the disease is. Gum disease often starts off with red or irritated gums that become tender or bleed when brushed. As the disease progresses, the gums can pull away from the teeth and develop “pockets” full of bacteria. Bad breath or taste might become constant.
Teeth can become painful and sensitive and chewing can begin to hurt. In the advanced stages, teeth will loosen and may need to be removed altogether. The infection can also spread to the bones and surrounding areas and even enter the bloodstream.
There is only one type of periodontal disease, but the disease has four stages, classified by severity. The four stages are as follows:
This is the most moderate form of the disease and is usually limited to red and possibly bleeding gums. It’s often painless. At this point, it can be reversed completely.
The disease has spread to the bone and started destroying it. Infection is deeply rooted in the gums. It now must be managed rather than reversed.
At this stage, tooth loss becomes likely. The teeth have started to loosen and there is significant damage to the gum and bones.
Tooth loss is certain at this stage. The gums might ooze pus. The bacteria has become disease-causing and can lead to significant complications.
Periodontal disease is 100% preventable with proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits. If you take proper care of your teeth and get regular cleanings, you can avoid ever getting periodontal disease. Even if you develop the early stage, gingivitis, it can be reversed with proper treatment.
Treatment depends on the severity of the disease. Gingivitis can be reversed by a deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing. More advanced stages of the disease require more involved treatment, which often includes procedures such as soft tissue grafting and tooth extractions.
Aside from the obvious effects on your teeth, periodontal disease can impact your overall health. When the bacteria spreads far enough, the infection can spill over into your bloodstream, leading to a host of health problems from cardiovascular issues such as strokes and heart attacks to diabetes. It can even cause pneumonia and premature birth.
Preventing periodontal disease is very inexpensive; it only requires the purchase and use of your basic oral hygiene supplies. Treating periodontal disease ranges in cost from a few hundred dollars for gingivitis to many thousands for severe periodontal disease.
The cost varies based on your individual case and how much of the treatment your dental insurance will cover. El Segundo Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics offers payment arrangements and financing options to help you get the dental care you need. We’ll be happy to discuss these options with you when you visit our office for a consultation.
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