{"id":158,"date":"2022-06-24T22:57:00","date_gmt":"2022-06-24T22:57:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ellicottcitysmiles.com\/blog\/?p=158"},"modified":"2022-07-24T22:57:40","modified_gmt":"2022-07-24T22:57:40","slug":"what-are-stages-of-gum-disease","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ellicottcitysmiles.com\/blog\/2022\/06\/24\/what-are-stages-of-gum-disease\/","title":{"rendered":"Gingivitis VS Periodontitis: What You Need to Know"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"ModelDid you know tooth decay isn\u2019t the only cause of tooth loss? Gum disease is equally devastating; however, it doesn\u2019t just affect your oral health. Research has found several connections between the preventable infection and various health issues, like cardiovascular disease, respiratory illness, and Alzheimer\u2019s disease. Although the early signs of the infection (gingivitis) may not seem concerning, if it progresses to periodontitis, you can suffer irreversible damage. Here\u2019s what you need to know to safeguard your health and wellness.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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What is Gum Disease?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Gum disease is a preventable infection caused by bacteria found in tartar buildup caused by improper oral hygiene. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 50% of Americans have the infection. Although it is easy to treat during the earliest stage, called gingivitis, many people don\u2019t recognize the symptoms of the infection until it has progressed to periodontitis. Contrary to common belief, the two stages are not the same. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gingivitis<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gingivitis appears as red, swollen, or bleeding gums, which can be caused by poor oral hygiene, smoking, hormonal changes, or nutritional deficiencies. Treating gingivitis is easy by making changes to your lifestyle and oral hygiene habits. Your dentist may also recommend scaling and root planing<\/a>, which removes tartar from above and below the gum line. Quick treatment will resolve the infection without experiencing any long-term damage to your smile. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Periodontitis<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, which is an advanced stage of gum disease. Your gums and bone can pull away from your teeth, causing deep periodontal pockets that trap bacteria. The infection can spread quickly, destroying the supporting structures on your teeth, which can lead to tooth loss. Not to mention, bacteria from gum disease may enter your bloodstream. As it circulates throughout your body, it can wreak havoc on your health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Unfortunately, a deep cleaning won\u2019t be enough to save your smile. You\u2019ll require a more aggressive approach to treat the infection to avoid tooth loss. You may also need extensive restorative procedures to repair any damage that has occurred, like gum grafting, bone grafting,  or tooth extractions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Preventing Gum Disease<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Although gum disease is common, it is preventable. You can invest in a healthy mouth and body by following a few simple tips:<\/p>\n\n\n\n