More adults than you realize are diagnosed with gum disease. In fact, over 80% of Americans have it in some form or another. The good news is that gum disease if treated early is quite treatable. But if left untreated can lead to serious problems.

About Gum Disease

It is an infection of the gums that can and will eventually affect the jawbone if ignored. It can also affect how your teeth function and it can also lead to tooth loss.

Here are the stages of gum disease to be aware of:

•       The first stage is gingivitis. This is the beginning stage of gum disease that responds well to treatment. Look for signs of pain while chewing and loose teeth. Prevent further development by brushing and flossing twice daily.
•       The second stage is slight periodontal disease. The infection has spread from the gums to the bones and cannot at this stage be reversed. Your dental professional can help by scheduling scaling and root planing procedures.
•       The third stage is moderate periodontal disease. Bacteria have multiplied to an advanced presence now, deeper into your bones and also the bloodstream. Rigorous cleaning, as well as scaling and planing, are required at this point.
•       The final stage is advanced periodontal disease. You will notice symptoms of severe halitosis or bad breath, bone loss, extremely painful chewing, and tooth loss. Laser therapy is required at this juncture.
•       More health risks associated with advanced gum disease are heart disease, a higher risk of stroke, the threat of diabetes, and more.

Learn More About the Prevention of Gum Disease

Mountain Town Dental professionals are here to assist you with additional information on gum disease. To schedule a private assessment of your gums and teeth, contact us today.