According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly half of all adults have gum disease—and most don’t even realize it. Also called periodontal disease, gum disease is responsible for everything from bad breath to tooth loss. King Campbell, DDS, PLLC in Pagosa Springs, CO, treats gum disease on a daily basis. They know understanding the condition is the first step in prevention. As such, they’ve broken down the three stages to give patients a better idea of what’s going on inside their mouths.

Understanding the 3 Stages of Gum Disease

1. Gingivitis

As common as it is, the first stage of gum disease is completely reversible. Signs of gingivitis include red and swollen gums, bad breath, and gums that bleed easily during brushing and flossing. The symptoms seem minor, but if they are not addressed, they lead to subsequent stages of gum disease and more serious dental health issues. You can reverse gingivitis with regular dental care, including brushing at least twice a day, flossing every day, and avoiding sugary foods.

2. Periodontitis

After gingivitis comes a more advanced condition of the same general symptoms. The gums will be bright red and tender to the touch. Bad breath will continue to get worse, and you might notice a bad taste constantly in your mouth. You may also develop pus between the teeth and gums, and teeth may become loose and won’t fit together properly when you bite down.

3. Advanced Periodontitis

The final stage of gum disease is characterized by the loss of bone and periodontal tissue. Deep periodontal pockets will form in the gaps between teeth, and gums will constantly be swollen and bleeding. Bad breath will become chronic and incurable at this point, and more teeth will become loose due to the weakening of the foundation that holds them in place. The shifting of teeth will lead to a crooked smile, regardless of how straight the teeth were to begin with. Tooth extraction is usually the only way forward to remove and prevent further infection.

Gum disease ruthlessly ruins smiles, but you can fight back. Consult a trusted local dentist about how preventative dentistry can help. Call King Campbell, DDS, PLLC at (970) 731-2126 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to learn more about their services.