1 Gum Disease Stages - Thousand Oaks, CA - Treat Gingivitis

The Stages of Gum Disease in Thousand Oaks, CA

Gum Disease Stages

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Gum Disease Stages

Gum disease develops in three stages: gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. Its early stage has such symptoms as red and puffy gums that bleed easily. As gum disease advances, your teeth may eventually become loose and need to be extracted. Dr. Jacqueline Subka wants her patients to be aware of gum disease symptoms in Thousand Oaks, CA.

In most cases, gum disease can be prevented with good dental hygiene practices (including brushing and flossing) and regular dental cleanings, but because of the serious health risks associated with gum disease, patients experiencing its symptoms should schedule a consultation with Dr. Subka in order to prevent its advance.

If you are experiencing gum disease symptoms in Thousand Oaks, CA, contact Dr. Subka today to schedule your consultation.

While gingivitis is reversible, there is no cure for periodontitis.
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Stage 1: Gingivitis

The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis, which is an inflammation of the gum tissue. It is accompanied by a change in the appearance of the gums. Rather than being a healthy pink color, they become red and puffy and bleed more easily. Gingivitis is caused by a buildup of plaque and bacteria around the gums. This plaque and bacteria is usually cleared away by regular brushing and flossing, while the more difficult buildups are cleared away in your regular dental cleanings. This early stage is reversible since it has not yet affected the bone or the fibers connecting the gums to the bone.

Stage 2: Periodontitis

When left untreated, gum disease progresses to affect the bone and the fibers that keep your teeth in place. The puffiness of the gums leads to the formation of pockets between the teeth and the gums. These pockets allow the plaque and bacteria to effect the structures which hold the teeth in place.

Stage 3: Advanced Periodontitis

At this stage of gum disease, the pockets between the teeth and the gums have become so deep that there is a serious danger of the teeth becoming loose. Treatment is still available even at these late stages to restore the health of the gums and save the teeth.