Gum disease is more common than many people realize. It starts small—maybe your gums bleed when you brush—but it can progress into a serious issue if left untreated. The good news? When caught early, gum disease is manageable and even reversible. Let’s break down the stages of gum disease and what to watch for.
- Red, swollen gums
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Bad breath that won’t go away
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum recession (teeth appear longer)
- Mild bone loss around teeth
- Loose teeth
- Increased gum sensitivity
- Pus between gums and teeth
- Severe pain when chewing
- Significant tooth movement or loss
- Gum infections or abscesses
Stage 1: Gingivitis – The Warning Sign
Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease and the only stage that can be reversed. It happens when plaque builds up along the gumline, causing inflammation. You may notice:
At this stage, no permanent damage has occurred. Brushing, flossing, and regular cleanings can help your gums heal before the disease worsens.
Stage 2: Early Periodontitis – When Damage Begins
If gingivitis isn’t treated, it can turn into early periodontitis. At this point, plaque hardens into tartar, which harbors bacteria. The gums start pulling away from the teeth, creating small pockets where bacteria thrive. Symptoms may include:
Professional dental care is needed to clean below the gumline and prevent further progression.
Stage 3: Moderate Periodontitis – Increased Damage
As gum disease worsens, the pockets around teeth deepen, and more bone is lost. At this stage, you may notice:
Treatment often includes deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) to remove bacteria and stop further damage.
Stage 4: Advanced Periodontitis – Severe Consequences
In the final stage, severe bone loss weakens tooth support. Symptoms include:
At this point, treatment may involve gum surgery or extractions, depending on the severity of the damage.
Gum Disease Treatment in Long Island City, NY at Queensboro Plaza Dental Care
Gum disease doesn’t happen overnight, but once it progresses, it becomes harder to manage. At Queensboro Plaza Dental Care in Long Island City, NY, Dr. Michael Nguyen and Dr. Daniel Barayev provide expert care to stop gum disease in its tracks.
If you have bleeding gums, bad breath, or gum recession, schedule an appointment today. Early treatment can save your gums, teeth, and smile!
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