Periodontal Disease = Gum Disease

Periodontal disease is also known as gum disease, it is a bacterial infection of the gum tissues and bone that hold the teeth in place.  It is caused by the bacteria in plaque, a sticky and colorless film that forms on the teeth. The early stages of gum disease can often be reversed and maintained with proper brushing, flossing and regular dental cleanings & check ups with the dentist.  Gum disease that is left untreated can lead to tooth loss and other periodontal complications and problems.

This is the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) classification of Periodontal Disease:

Type I  Gingivitis

·       Earliest stage of gum disease

·       No loss of attachment, no bone loss

·       Bleeding on probing may be present

·       At this early stage in gum disease, damage can be reversible since there is no bone loss.

·       Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental cleanings help to remove plaque

Type II  Early Periodontitis

·       Pocket depths or attachment loss: 3-4mm.  Bone loss is present.

·       Periodontal pockets are formed as the dental tissues (gums and supportive ligaments) begin to pull away from the tooth.  These pockets trap bacteria and causes gum infection

·       Localized area of gingival recession; gums pull away and expose the root

·       Bleeding on probing may be present

·       Damages caused by gum disease is irreversible

Type III  Moderate Periodontitis

·       Pocket depths or attachment loss: 4-6mm.   Bone loss is present.

·       Bleeding on probing

·       Furcation involvement

·       Teeth show mobility (loose)

·       Damages cause by gum disease is irreversible

Type IV  Advanced Periodontitis

·       Pocket depths or attachment loss: greater than 6mm.   Bone loss is present.

·       Supporting tissues and bone are destroyed. 

·       Bleeding on probing

·       Furcation involvement

·       Teeth show increased mobility (loose).  Some teeth are so loose that they may need to be extracted.

·       Damages caused by gum disease is irreversible

Signs of Periodontal Disease

·       Gums are red, swollen or tender

·       Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing

·       Teeth that look longer due to gum recessions

·       Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums

·       Loose or shifting teeth

·       Persistent  bad breath or bad taste in the mouth

·       Changes in how the teeth fit together when biting (occlusion)

·       Changes of the fit of a partial denture

Gum disease can occur at any age.  If gum disease is detected and treated at early stages, it can be reversed and maintained.  Currently, there is no cure for gum disease. 

If you notice any signs of periodontal disease, please contact Glendora Dentist, Dr. Anna Lee for a dental checkup.  You don’t have to lose teeth to periodontal disease.  Dr. Anna Lee can help to save your teeth. Call and schedule a free consultation at 626-335-5114 or visit us at www.annaleedds.com