The Stages of Periodontal Disease

STAGES

Gingivitis is the mildest form of the disease. The gums redden, swell and bleed easily. There is usually little or no discomfort. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good home oral care.

 

Periodontitis - Untreated Gingivitis can advance to Periodontitis. In time, plaque spreads and grows below the gum-line. Bacterial toxins irritate the gums and stimulate your body to produce an inflammatory response which causes tissue and bone to be destroyed.

 

Pockets are formed when the gums pull away or separate from the teeth. As Periodontitis progresses, pockets become infected and bone loss progresses. The bacteria grows deeper under the gumline and eventually teeth may become loose and have to be removed.