Think gum disease is something that only happens after decades of bad brushing? Think again. Gum disease can sneak up on you – silently, steadily – until one day you’re facing receding gums, loose teeth, or even tooth loss.
The good news? This timeline can be stopped – or even reversed – with the right care.
Here’s how gum disease typically unfolds, and what you can do at each stage to protect your gums, teeth, and overall health.
Stage 1: Gingivitis – The Warning Signs Begin
What’s happening:
Plaque builds up on your teeth, irritating the gums. You may notice mild bleeding when brushing or flossing, red or puffy gums, or bad breath.
Is it reversible?
Yes! Gingivitis is the only stage that’s fully reversible with good oral hygiene and professional cleanings.
What to do:
- Brush and floss daily
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash
- Book a professional cleaning ASAP
Stage 2: Early Periodontitis – Beneath the Surface
What’s happening:
If gingivitis is left untreated, plaque hardens into tartar, and the infection begins to move below the gum line. Gums may start to recede, and the bone that supports your teeth begins to break down.
Symptoms may include:
- Gum sensitivity
- Persistent bad breath
- Bleeding during routine brushing
What to do:
This stage requires professional periodontal care. You may need scaling and root planing (a deep cleaning) to remove bacteria from below the gum line.
Stage 3: Moderate Periodontitis – Bone Loss Starts
What’s happening:
The infection becomes more aggressive. Gums pull farther from the teeth, forming deeper pockets where bacteria thrive. You may experience loose teeth, gum pain, and more significant bone loss.
What to do:
Treatment becomes more complex here – you may need more frequent deep cleanings, antibiotic therapy, or advanced periodontal procedures to stabilize the disease and protect your remaining bone.
Stage 4: Advanced Periodontitis – Irreversible Damage
What’s happening:
Gum tissue and bone continue to deteriorate. Teeth may become very loose or fall out. Infections can become painful and spread. Jawbone loss can even affect your facial structure.
What to do:
Tooth extraction, bone grafting, or even dental implants may be necessary. But most importantly – intervention is still worth it to preserve as much of your smile as possible.
Laser treatment might be employed to remove inflamed tissue and root surface calculus (tartar), promoting healthy tissue regeneration.
The Sooner You Act, the Better the Outcome
Catching gum disease early can make the difference between a routine cleaning and costly, invasive procedures – or even tooth loss.
At Pure Periodontics, we’re experts in gum disease at every stage. Whether you’re noticing early signs or dealing with long-term symptoms, we can help you reclaim your oral health – and stop that timeline in its tracks.
Don’t wait for it to get worse. Schedule your consultation today.