What is Periodontitis: Stages, Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

What is Periodontitis?

Periodontitis is a serious gum infection which is the advanced stage of Gingivitis. It is caused when bacteria accumulate on the teeth and gums.

What are the stages of Periodontitis?

    • Inflammation (gingivitis)

Periodontitis begins with inflammation in gums and it is the first sign of gum disease.

    • Early periodontal disease

During early stages of periodontitis the gums recede or pull away from your teeth forming small pockets between teeth and gums.

    • Moderate periodontal disease

If left to progress, you may experience bleeding and pain around the teeth and gum recession.

    • Advanced periodontal disease

During advanced disease, the connective tissues holding the teeth in place begin to deteriorate. The gums, bone, and other tissue supporting the teeth are destroyed.

What are the symptoms of Periodontitis?

    • Bleeding gums

    • Bad breath

    • Receding gums

    • Red and swollen gums

    • Tooth loss

    • Inflammation

What causes Periodontitis?

    • The bacteria in mouth multiply and create plaque.

    • If the plaque is not removed, the bacteria deposit mineral over the time known as tartar.

    • Poor oral hygiene is the leading cause of gum diseases.

How is Periodontitis diagnosed?

The disease is diagnosed with the help of a dental examination and taking a note of the signs and symptoms that you are witnessing.

What are the complications of Periodontitis?

    • Painful abscess

    • Migration of teeth

    • Receding gums

    • Complications during pregnancy

    • Risk of heart disease

How is Periodontitis treated?

    • Oral hygiene practices

By brushing and flossing your teeth twice daily and eating healthy food.

    • Professional cleanings

By visiting the dentist in Spring TX for deep cleaning where the pockets are cleaned followed by healing.

    • Antibiotics

    • Follow-up appointments

Dentist in 77379 will ask for follow-up every few weeks and then every 3 to 6 months to assess your progress.

    • Surgery

If inflammation persists and no other treatment is feasible, flap surgery may be the ideal option.

What is the outlook for Periodontitis?

Periodontitis can be treated and prevented if spotted early. Therefore, you must visit the dentist regularly.