In the course of her practice at Belmont Dental Clinic, Ghasaq Al-Bakkal, DMD, has handled multiple cases of gum disease. Unfortunately, many patients do not consult a dentist until the disease has progressed, leaving professionals like Dr. Ghasaq Al-Bakkal with a small window of time to employ available treatment options. This can be avoided by understanding the three stages of gum disease: gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis.
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and involves the buildup of plaque around the teeth, causing inflammation. The plaque settles around the teeth, producing toxins that irritate and slowly inflame the gum tissue, which subsequently causes bleeding.
Periodontitis occurs when the gum tissue forms pockets along the gum line, trapping food and more plaque. The supporting bone and fibers holding the teeth become irreversibly damaged. In the final stage of advanced periodontitis, the bones and fibers supporting the teeth become completely damaged. The teeth shift, loosen, and in time, fall out.
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and involves the buildup of plaque around the teeth, causing inflammation. The plaque settles around the teeth, producing toxins that irritate and slowly inflame the gum tissue, which subsequently causes bleeding.
Periodontitis occurs when the gum tissue forms pockets along the gum line, trapping food and more plaque. The supporting bone and fibers holding the teeth become irreversibly damaged. In the final stage of advanced periodontitis, the bones and fibers supporting the teeth become completely damaged. The teeth shift, loosen, and in time, fall out.