STAGES OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE

If left untreated, gum disease progresses thru different stages, causing more and more destruction, and making each next step more difficult to treat. The following illustrations, shows the diagrams of gum disease development :

HEALTHY GUMS

• Firm and light pink
• Hug the teeth tightly
• Don’t bleed when brushed
• Pocket depth when measured is no more than 2mm

GINGIVITIS

• First stage of periodontal disease which involves soft tissue only: bone has not been affected at this point.
• Gums bleed when brushed or probed
• Inflammation and redness present
• Possible bad breath

MILD PERIODONTITIS

• This is the second stage of periodontal disease where bone starting to get affected
• The bleeding and swelling is more pronounced
• Pocket depth reach 3-4mm
• Bad breath/taste
• Loss of firmness and texture
• Bone loss may be evident on x-rays

MODERATE PERIODONTITIS

• Gum line starts to recede and teeth appear to be longer
• Sensitivity may appear
• Abscesses or gum boils may appear
• Teeth may shift and spaces can form between teeth
• Redness and bleeding is very apparent
• Further inflammation and loss of texture
• Mobility of teeth
• Pocket depths 4-6mm
• Significant bone loss is detected with x-ray

ADVANCED PERIODONTITIS

• All of the above symptoms are very pronounced
• Pocket depths exceed 6mm
• Severe mobility and bone loss
• Possible need for extractions