faq

WHAT ARE THE STAGES OF GUM DISEASE

What Is Gum Disease
	Gum Disease is an inflammation of the gums that can progress to affect the bone that surrounds and supports your teeth.
	It is caused by bacteria in plaque, a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth.
	If not removed through daily brushing and flossing, plaque can built up and the bacteria infect not only your gums and teeth, but eventually the gum tissue and bone that support the teeth.
	This can cause them to become loose, fall out or have to be removed by a dentist
There are three stages of gum disease Gingivitis Periodontitis Advanced Periodontitis
GINGIVITIS
	This is the earliest stage of gum disease, an inglammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup at the gumline.
	If daily brushing and flossing dont remove the plaque, it produces toxins ( poisons ) that can irritate the gum tissue, causing gingivitis. You may notice some bleeding during brushing and flossing
	At this early stage in gum disease, damage can be reversed, since the bone and connective tissue that holds the teeth in place are not yet affected.
PERIODONTITIS
	At this stage, the supporting bone and fibres that hold your teeth in place are irreversibly damaged.
	Your gums may begin to form a pocket below the gumline, which traps food and plaque.
	Proper dental treatment and improved home care can usually help prevent further damage.
ADVANCED PERIODONTITIS
	In this final stage of gum disease, the fibres and bone supporting your teeth are destroyed, which can cause 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.
How do I know if I Have Gum Disease
	Gum disease can occur at any age, but it is most common among adults.
	If detected in its early stages, gum disease can be reversed - so see your dentist if you notice any of the following symptoms Gums that are red, puffy or swollen, or tender Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing Teeth that look longer because your gums have receded. Gums that have separated, or pulled away, from your teeth, creating a pocket Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite Pus coming from between your teeth and gums Constant bad breath or bad taste in your mouth.
How Is Gum Disease Treated
	The early stages of gum disease can often be reversedwith proper brushing and flossing. Good oral health will help keep plaque from building up.
	A professional cleaning by your dentist or hygienist is the only way to remove plaque that has built up and hardened into tartar.
	Your dentist or hygienist will clean or "scale" your teeth to remove the tartar above and below the gumline.
	If your condition is more severe, a root planing procedure may be perfoemed
	Roor planing helps to smooth irregularities on the roots of the teeth making it more difficult for plaque to deposit there.
	By scheduling regular checkups, early stage gum disease can be treated before it leads to a much more serious condition.
	If your condition is more advanced, treatment in the dental office will be required.