Gum disease is recognizable by the youngest and oldest dental patients, although many people do not know what to look for. It follows a traditional pattern that we teach to our patients. It is important to be able to detect the symptoms of early gum disease, so you know when to contact our office for help.
The Four Stages of Gum Disease are Easy to Recognize
The first stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. This is the most overlooked stage of gum disease. In this stage the gums are inflamed. If plaque is not removed, and it builds up at the gum line, it can inflame the gums. If your gums feel irritated or appear red, these could be early signs of gingivitis. The first stage of gum disease is often a result of poor oral hygiene. If bad habits persist, gingivitis advances into the tissues that connects the teeth to the bone.
Bone loss is not uncommon in the second stage of gum disease. Characteristic symptoms of bone loss include gaps or openings between the teeth. The third stage of gum disease is marked by continued bone loss, even up to 50 percent loss. The fourth stage of gum disease is when the tooth begins to shift around due to bone loss and inflammation. The adult tooth can even be wiggled with your fingers and your gums can be swollen and uncomfortable.
Calling Our Office is a Good First Step if You Suspect You Have Gum Disease
If gingivitis is not treated it can result in tooth loss. Give our office a call if you suspect you have symptoms of gum disease. We are gentle on your mouth and tough on gum disease. We look forward to helping you to stop gum disease before you experience bigger and more expensive problems.
About Us | Dentist Burlington, MA | Dental Care of Burlington Above all else, we here at Dental Care of Burlington want our patients to maintain healthy, bright, and beautiful smiles! Learn more here. Dental Care of Burlington, 113 Terrace Ave, Unit 1, Burlington, MA 01803 ~ 781-362-2260 ~ dentalcareburlington.com ~ 12/30/2024 ~ Page Keywords: dentist Burlington Ma ~