Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums that is caused by bacteria in plaque. If not treated, gum disease can cause teeth to become loose and eventually fall out or need to be extracted by a dentist.
There are three stages of gum disease:
1. Gingivitis: This is the beginning stage of gum disease. Since the bone and connective tissues of the teeth are not yet affected, the disease is reversible if treated.
2. Periodontitis: At this stage, pockets are formed below the gumline which trap foods and plaque. The damaged bone and supporting tissues at this stage is typically irreversible. But, effective dental treatment can help preventing further damage.
3. Advanced Periodontitis: The damage of the bone and supporting tissue is severe and causes movement of teeth. In this final stage of gum disease, if dental treatment can’t save the teeth, they need to be extracted.
Some symptoms of gum disease are: bleeding gums during brushing/flossing, swollen/redness of gum tissue, bad breath, receding gums and movement of teeth.
At Avenue Dental, effective prevention and treatment of gum disease is available. Early detection and treatment is critical to prevent further tooth loss and movement. Call us at 512-329-9900. We can help.