Stages Of Gum Disease
The daily task of brushing and flossing your teeth is important in order to avoid gum disease and to reduce the risk of gum disease affecting your overall health.
It has been estimated that 75% of Americans have some form of gum disease which can be linked to serious health complications and causes dental problems that are avoidable.
There are three main stages of gum disease:
Stage 1: Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and is caused by plaque buildup around the gum line which causes inflammation of the gums. If you neglect to brush or floss your teeth daily, this plaque buildup will trap bacteria and cause gum disease. Gingivitis causes inflammation of the gums. Gums that should otherwise be pink will appear red and swollen; you could experience bleeding when you brush or floss. However, at this point, gingivitis can still be reversed. The bone and fibers that hold your teeth in place have not yet been affected.
Stage 2: Periodontitis
If gingivitis is left untreated, the condition will become periodontitis. At this stage, the supporting bones and fibers that hold your teeth in place have been irreversibly damaged. Your gums begin to form “pockets,” deep hollow areas around the teeth that trap food, plaque, and bacteria. Your gums will recede and form gaps between your teeth. Immediate treatment is necessary to prevent further damage and tooth loss.
Stage 3: Advanced Periodontitis
In this final stage, periodontitis has been left untreated and has become advanced periodontitis. Bacteria that was allowed to grow, spread, and cause destruction has destroyed the connective tissues and bones that support the teeth. The pockets that formed in the previous stage have become much deeper. Your teeth can shift or loosen. Loose teeth that move around in the mouth may affect your bite. At this state, aggressive treatment is needed to save the teeth.
We are accepting new patients in both our Wilmington and Leland offices!
Dr. Deana Cook, located in Wilmington and Leland, NC, is an experienced periodontist who serves patients from Castle Hayne, Porters Neck, Ogden, Leland, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Southport, and Hampstead. Dr. Cook, along with our entire team, is looking forward to welcoming you to our office and encourage you to schedule your appointment today!
Wilmington Office
7028 Wrightsville Avenue
Wilmington, NC 28403
Phone Number: (910) 256-8486
Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday: 8:00am – 3:00pm
Wednesday: 8:00am – 3:00pm
Thursday: CLOSED
Leland Office
1217 Magnolia Village Way
Leland, NC 28451
Current Patients: (910) 256-8486
Monday: 8:00am – 3:00pm
Tuesday: CLOSED
Wednesday: CLOSED
Thursday: 8:00am – 3:00pm