Gum Disease Info
Gum Disease Stages
Gingivitis (Level 1): Initiallythere is an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup at the gumline. If the plaque remains even after daily brushing and flossing then it becomes home for bacteria that produce harmful toxins (virulent). Some bleeding may occur with brushing. One example of the body’s natural defense system is that the gum (gingival) cells produce antibodies that fight off the threat from bacteria and the toxins it releases. Damage can be reversed since the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place have not yet been affected. Proper dental treatment and improved home care can usually help prevent further damage.
Periodontitis (Level 2): Gums inflamed by prolonged gingivitis can pull away from the teeth and form pockets. These pockets offer bacteria, plaque, and tartar the opportunity to spread below the gumline and cause infection. When this occurs, the toxins produced by bacteria, and even the body's own enzymes that have mobilized to fight the infection, can begin to break down the bone and connective tissues that hold teeth in place. At this point diligent oral care at home combined with conventional treatments for periodontitis that your dentist will employ can reverse this problem
Advanced Periodontitis (Level 3): In this final stage of gum disease, the connective tissue and bone supporting your teeth are destroyed, causing your teeth to shift or loosen. This can affect your bite and, if aggressive treatment can't save them, teeth may need to be removed
