Stages of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is the result of plaque-induced inflammatory lesions that affect the tooth-supporting structures. It often leads to bleeding, abscesses, gum deformities, dental loss, and even worse, if left unresolved.

Periodontal disease doesn’t occur overnight. It is progressive and, which is why proper periodontal health is easy to ignore. Diagnosis often occurs when the disease is advanced.

On the right is a picture of the various stages of periodontal diseased. Let’s explore each stage.

Health

Gums have healthy pink color. Gum line hugs teeth tightly. No bleeding seen.

Gingivitis

Gums bleed easily when you brush or when probed gently during examination. Gums are inflamed and sensitive to touch. Possible bad breath and bad taste. Gums between teeth may look bluish-red in color.

Early Periodontis

Gums may begin to pull away from the teeth. Bleeding, puffiness and inflammation more pronounced. Bad breath, bad taste. Slight loss of bone, horizontally on X-ray. Pockets of 3-4mm between teeth and gums in one or more areas of the mouth.

Moderate Periodontis

Gum boils or abscesses may develop. Teeth look longer as gums begin to recede. Front teeth may begin to drift, showing spaces. Bad breath, bad taste. Both horizontal and angular bone loss on X-ray. Pockets between teeth and gum range from 4-6mm deep.

Advanced Periodontis

Teeth may become mobile or loose. Bad breath, bad taste are constant. Roots may be exposed and are sensitive to hot and cold. Severe horizontal and angular bone loss on X-ray. Pockets between teeth and gum now in excess of 7mm deep.