Frequently Asked Questions

Types of Periodontal Disease

Health

In a healthy situation, gum tissues are pink and firm, and they do not bleed easily. There is no evidence of loss of bone or other supporting tissues.


Healthy Tissues Pink, firm tissues throughout with no bleeding present.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the mildest form of periodontal disease. It causes the gums to become red and swollen. The gums may bleed easily, but there is usually little or no discomfort. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good home care.


Gingivitis Red, swollen gums, with bleeding and inflammation.

Mild Periodontitis

If gingivitis is left untreated, it can advance to periodontitis. In the mild stage, periodontal diseases begin to destroy the bone and supporting tissues of the teeth.


Mild Periodontitis Red, swollen, bleeding gums are evident, and there is bone loss and breakdown of the supporting tissues around the teeth.

Moderate to Advanced Periodontitis

Moderate to advanced periodontitis develops if earlier forms of the disease like gingivitis and mild periodontitis are not treated and controlled. Extensive bone and tissue loss occurs in this most advanced form of the disease.


Moderate to Advanced Periodontitis Extensive bone loss and breakdown of the supporting tissues around the teeth can lead to tooth loss. Note the significant drifting of teeth along with inflammation associated with periodontitis.

Other forms of Periodontitis

While gingivitis and chronic periodontitis are the most common forms of periodontal disease, there are also several aggressive forms of gum disease. These aggressive forms of periodontal disease may affect younger individuals, even in the absence of an abundance of dental plaque, and people effected with them may not respond well to conventional treatment regimens.

What Does All Of This Mean To Me?

Sometimes the only way to detect periodontal disease is through a periodontal evaluation. This may be especially important if you:

Notice any symptoms of periodontal disease.
Have heart disease, diabetes, respiratory disease or osteoporosis.
Are thinking of becoming pregnant.
Have a family member with periodontal disease.
Have a sore or irritation in your mouth that does not get better within two weeks.
Are missing any of your teeth and wish to explore dental implants as a permanent replacement.

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